Can someone explain how to conjugate verbs in hypothetical situations?

Question

I mean when describing a situation that could or would've happened. Por ejemplo: "if John trusted in the man he would lose all his money." "she would have died if it wasn't for you!"

I guess maybe I'm asking how to put would in front of a verb.

I appreciate all help thanks!

"she would have died if it were't for you!." (in standard English). - samdie, Oct 18, 2011

Answer 1

It depends on what you mean by hypothetical. I was discussing this with Paralee a few days ago. The future tense and conditional tense in Spanish can be hypothetical in the sense that you do not always know if the the action will actually occur or not. With if clauses, however, hypothetical situations are usually ones that are contrary-to-fact or unlikely to occur.

Since both of your examples include if clauses I suggest that you read this article

Usually "would..." is expressed with the conditional [& conditional perfect] tense (indicative mood) or the past/past perfect tense in the subjunctive mood (hubiera....)

quisiera pedir.... I would like to order....