The Function of “Should” as “if”
The
Function of “Should” as “if”
“Should” can also be used in conjunction with “if” to express a possible future state
that is considered somewhat unlikely to occur. This is in contrast with “were to”, which suggest a future
state which is considered highly unlikely or impossible.
Examples:
-
If he
should come today, I would greet him heartily.
or
-
Should
he come today, I would greet him heartily.
Compare
this to the “were to” version:
-
If he
were to come today, I would be surprised.
or
-
Were
he to come today, I would be surprised.
The
difference between the two constructions is a matter of nuance. These sentences
could be used interchangeably and not causing confusion. All of these constructions
are considered somewhat, formal, particularly in American English. These must
also be used in conjunction with “would”
to indicate the level of unlikeliness.
For
contrast, consider the plain versions, in order of decreasing likeliness:
-
If he
comes today, I will great him heartily. (strongly possible)
-
If
he came today, I would be surprised. (unlikely, requires “would”)
-
If he
had come today, I would have thanked him. (counter-factual, e.g. he did NOT
come, requires “would have”
Other
examples of “should” that is used as
“if”:
-
“Should
you feel any trouble understanding the lesson, you may come the me after class”,
said the teacher.
-
Should
you feel bored, you can take a look around the neighborhood.
-
You
have to stand and defend yourself, should you feel bullied.
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