Si + plus-que-parfait: past hypotheticals
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Si + plus-que-parfait: past hypotheticals
For an unreal past condition and its past result, use si + plus-que-parfait, then the past conditional.
Examples in context
Read the examples and compare their English meanings.
A missed chance
Si j’avais réservé, j’aurais eu une place.
If I had booked, I would have had a seat.
Reversing the clauses
Nous serions venus si tu nous avais invités.
We would have come if you had invited us.
Common mix-ups
This si clause uses the past perfect.
If I had known, I would have come.
Try a reply
Say or write your answer in French before opening the example.
If you had called, I would have answered. Address one friend.
Show one possible answer
Si tu avais appelé, j'aurais répondu.
Other wording can work too. Compare the verb form, agreement, and word order with the lesson. Then try a sentence about your own day.
Keep practicing
Related grammar
Grammar references
Practice French grammar in context
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