0
Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Hypothetical

Hello,

I have a small doubt, so I'll give an example. Suppose a guy says to his wife: Tell me what you will you do if I accept the offer in Europe? Will you be upset?

My doubt is, since this is hypothetical (he hasn't accepted it yet, only speculating), must it be 'would you be angry' just to make it less definite? Are both okay? Are there any rules regarding this?

Thanks,
  

Top answer

Both are OK. It depends on how sure the speaker is about future outcomes. By saying 'will', he reveals that he will probably take the offer.

— Mister Micawber

  • Both are OK.
  • It depends on how sure the speaker is about future outcomes.
  • By saying 'will', he reveals that he will probably take the offer.
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

3 Answers
0
Both are OK. It depends on how sure the speaker is about future outcomes. By saying 'will', he reveals that he will probably take the offer.
0
0
Thanks, MM.

What if it is subjunctive and the conversation continues. Must we maintain 'would', then? For instance: Tell me what you would do if that man were to come over here? Would (not will) you be upset?
Reply: Yes, I would (not will) be. Why would you ask? He replies: Because I am not sure how you would (not will) respond. Would you slap him?

And so on and so forth. W
0
0
Yes, generally the verb form would be consistent-- but both speakers needn't follow it; there is no rule that demands this.

Again, 'what might be' is not a sufficient reason. It is based on speakers' estimates of probabilities.
0

Related Questions