Should vs. If

'Should' and 'if' can be used interchangeably in conditional mood. In this lesson, we will learn more about them.

What Is Their Main Difference?

The main difference between 'should' and 'if' is that 'should' is a modal verb while 'if' is a conjunction.

'Should' is a modal verb (also known as modal). Modals give additional information about the main verb. 'Should' is used to talk about possibilities, give advice, make suggestions, etc. For instance:

We should test the product before the release day.

David should be at his office right now.

Conjunction If

'If' is a subordinating conjunction that is used in conditional mood. It shows that X happens and as a result Y will happen. In other words, Y happens because of X. Have a look:

If you have free time, you can visit museums.

If she knows the linguistics, then she can easily learn new languages.

Are They Interchangeable?

'Should' can replace 'if' without changing the meaning of the sentences. However, 'if' cannot always replace 'should' as 'should' has other uses.
To talk about conditions with 'should,' we follow the pattern illustrated below:

Should + subject + base verb + …

Compare:

Should anyone ask for me, I'm in my office.

If anyone ask for me, I'm in my office.

Should you have any issues, contact the customer service.

If you have any issues, contact the customer service.

If and Should in One Sentence

'If' and 'should' can be used in one sentence, only when 'should' is used as a modal verb and not as an alternative for 'if.' For instance:

If you win that lottery, you should help a charity.

If the weather got better, we should go for a walk.

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