What is the proper use of "was" and "were" in propositions? I am not asking abou

  1. profile image49
    fd1posted 14 years ago

    What is the proper use of "was" and "were" in propositions? I am not asking about subject singular.

    "If there were a park nearby, I would go to it."

    Or,

    "If there was a park nearby, I would go to it."

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  2. Sue B. profile image61
    Sue B.posted 14 years ago

    They both sounds correct to most people but technically "if there were a park nearby, I would go to it." Is correct.  I double checked a few english and grammar forums on the subject.  Using "were" this way was described as the "subjective mood."  When a sentence conveys a wish, you would use "were."  I wish there were a park  nearby would also be correct.

    "If" is considered a conjunction not a preposition.  If you search the proper use of "was" versus "were" when using conjunctions you'll find more information.

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  3. Realkoyoable profile image60
    Realkoyoableposted 14 years ago

    Was becomes were when the tense is conditional, i.e. a condition is mentioned. ('Would' usually goes hand in hand in this tense too)

    "If I were richer I would go to Spain."
    "If I weren't so short I would be able to reach the top shelf!"

    Were is also used if a wish is expressed:

    "I wish I were taller."

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