Contrary To Fact and Cause and Effect Statements

Question 1

Contrary to Fact or Hypothetical

This is expressed by “you were not” or your friend “we’re not” driving badly what “would” happen.

When we express a speculation or conjecture about what would happen if circumstances

Answer 1

In Spanish the imperfect subjunctive is used in the “if” portion of the sentence if the hypothetical is about the present plus the conditional in the phrase that indicates the consequence.

If you drove like a lunatic they would give you a ticket.

Si manejaras como loco to pondrían una multa.
(Imperfect Subjunctive / Conditional )

OR further in the past:
If you had driven like a maniac they would have given you a fine.
Si hubieras manejado como loco te habrian puesto una multa.

( Plusperfect Subjunctive / Conditional Perfect

Question 2

Cause And Effect

To master this use of the subjunctive you need to learn the difference between a “cause and effect” statement and a “hypothetical” one.

Cause and effect observes reality and makes an assertion.Normally two clauses where one clause indicates reality and uses the present indicative and the second uses the future to describe the likely effect.

Answer 2

Cause and effect example.

If you drive (pres ind)like a lunatic they will give (future)you a ticket.

Si manejas (pres ind)como loco te pondrán (future) una multa