If I was vs. if I were — what’s the difference, and which one should you use? This is a common question for English learners, and even native speakers often get confused. You’ve probably heard both used in everyday English, but they follow different grammar rules.
The key difference comes down to the type of situation you’re describing: real or imaginary. In grammar, this is explained through two moods — the indicative mood (used for real or possible situations) and the subjunctive mood (used for unreal, hypothetical ones). In this article, you’ll learn exactly when to use “if I was” and when “if I were”, with clear explanations, real examples, and simple tips for mastering both.
What’s the Difference Between “If I Was” and “If I Were”?
The difference between “if I was” and “if I were” depends on the type of situation you’re talking about — real or imaginary.
Use “if I were” when you’re talking about something that is unreal, imagined, or hypothetical. This includes situations that are not true, not likely, or purely imaginary — like dreams, wishes, or ideas about what could happen in a different world.
- If I were rich, I would travel the world.
- If she were here, she’d know what to do.
On the other hand, use “if I was” when you’re talking about something that really happened in the past, or might have happened. It’s used for real or possible situations, especially when you’re not sure if they happened.
- If I was rude yesterday, I apologize.
- If he was at the party, I didn’t see him.
This difference is based on English grammar moods:
- The subjunctive mood is used for imaginary or hypothetical situations → use “were.”
- The indicative mood is used for real or factual situations → use “was.”
What Is the Subjunctive Mood?
The subjunctive mood is used to talk about imaginary or unreal situations — things that are wishes, hypotheses, dreams, or things contrary to fact.
In the subjunctive, the verb “to be” always changes to “were”, no matter what the subject is — even with I, he, or she.
Examples of Subjunctive Mood:
- If I were rich, I would travel the world. (I’m not rich.)
- If she were taller, she could be a model. (She’s not taller.)
- I wish I were there with you. (I’m not.)
What Is the Indicative Mood?
The indicative mood is what we use most of the time in English — to talk about real facts, questions, and things that happened or might have happened.
When you’re not imagining something, but instead talking about a real situation (especially in the past), then it’s correct to use “was.”
Examples of Indicative Mood:
- If I was rude yesterday, I apologize. (You’re not sure, but it may have happened.)
- She asked if I was at the meeting. (You could have been there.)
- If he was late, there was probably traffic. (You’re considering a real possibility.)
Why Do Native Speakers Often Say “If I Was”?
In informal conversation, even native English speakers often say “if I was” when they technically should say “if I were.” That’s because the subjunctive mood is fading in casual speech.
However, in formal writing, academic exams (like IELTS, TOEFL, or SAT), and professional communication, it’s still important to use “if I were” correctly when talking about unreal or imaginary situations.
Quiz: If I Was vs. If I Were
Choose the correct option for each sentence:
1. If I ___ you, I would take that opportunity.
a) was
b) were
2. She asked if I ___ at the party last night.
a) were
b) was
3. If he ___ more patient, he wouldn’t get so angry.
a) was
b) were
4. I wish I ___ better at math.
a) was
b) were
5. If I ___ rude earlier, please forgive me.
a) was
b) were
6. If she ___ in charge, things would be different.
a) was
b) were
7. If I ___ there, I didn’t see anything unusual.
a) were
b) was
8. If he ___ taller, he could join the team.
a) was
b) were
9. I don’t know if I ___ included in the email.
a) were
b) was
10. If we ___ friends, we could talk about this.
a) were
b) was
Quiz Answers
1) were
2) was
3) were
4) were
5) was
6) were
7) was
8) were
9) was
10) were
