Many learners wonder whether they should say 'If I were' or 'If I was'. This guide explains the difference clearly with rules, examples, and easy ways to sound natural in both formal and everyday English.
English conditional clauses can be confusing, especially when it comes to choosing between “If I were” and “If I was”. Both forms appear in real English, but they are not always used in the same situations. Understanding the difference will help you speak more confidently and write more accurately — whether in casual conversations or formal writing.
This guide walks you through the grammar, the logic behind each phrase, and the real-life usage patterns native speakers follow. You’ll also get examples, comparisons, and interactive practice to help the rules stick naturally.
The phrase “If I were” is traditionally used for impossible, imaginary, or unreal situations. This form is part of the subjunctive mood, a special structure used to talk about ideas that are not true or not real.
We use If I were when:
This structure is more common in formal writing, polite expressions, and careful speech. Many traditional grammar rules still recommend “If I were” in unreal conditionals.
| Example | Meaning |
|---|---|
| If I were rich, I would travel. | Imaginary situation — not true right now. |
| If she were a bird, she would fly away. | Completely impossible condition. |
Think of “If I were” as the form used for dreams, wishes, fantasies, and hypotheticals.
The phrase “If I was” is used when the condition refers to a real situation in the past, even if you’re not sure it happened. It does not describe imaginary or impossible situations. Instead, it deals with real possibilities.
We use If I was when:
In everyday conversation, many native speakers say “If I was” even in hypothetical situations, but it is not preferred in formal writing.
| Example | Meaning |
|---|---|
| If I was late, it was because of traffic. | A real possibility in the past. |
| If he was angry, he didn't say anything. | Uncertain past condition. |
Think of “If I was” as something connected to real events or uncertainty about the past.
Seeing both forms together helps clarify when each one is correct.
| Situation | If I Were | If I Was |
|---|---|---|
| Imaginary condition | If I were you, I’d take the job. | ❌ Not preferred |
| Real past possibility | ❌ Not appropriate | If I was wrong, tell me. |
| Uncertain past truth | ❌ Not appropriate | If he was here, I didn’t see him. |
| Wishful thinking | If I were a millionaire… | ❌ Not preferred |
The key difference is whether the situation is real or imaginary.
Many learners (and even native speakers) use “If I was” in all situations. While this is acceptable in casual speech, it can sound incorrect in formal writing or exams.
Keep these tips in mind:
Shortcut to remember:
WERE = unreal / WAS = real past
Answers: were / was / were / was
⭐ Pro Tip: In formal writing, “If I were” is always safe for unreal situations — even if many native speakers say “If I was” casually.
The difference between “If I were” and “If I was” comes down to whether the situation is imaginary or connected to real events. Use “were” for hypotheticals and “was” for real past possibilities. With practice and attention, choosing the right form becomes natural, helping you sound more polished in both speech and writing.