As if and as though: appearance and comparison

The idea

For a plausible appearance, use the tense that fits the time, as in it is raining or it has rained. For an unreal present comparison, a past form such as were or was shows distance from reality; were is more formal. An unreal earlier situation can take a past perfect.

Examples

• The sky looks as if it is going to rain.
• Maya sounds as though she has caught a cold.
• The child talks as if he were a famous explorer.
• I feel as though I were floating above the water.
• The room smells as if someone has baked bread.
• Leo waved as though he had known us for years.

Watch out

Do not assume a past form always refers to past time: as if she were can describe an imaginary situation now.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. The lights are on; it looks as ___ someone is home. (if / unless)

   Show answer or example answer

   if

   if completes the expression and the lights support the possibility.

2. Choose the correct option. In this imaginary comparison, both options work: Nina acts as if she ___ the boss, but she is not. (was / were)

   Show answer or example answer

   was / were

   was and were both work for this unreal present comparison; were is more formal.

3. Choose the correct option. The empty plates suggest an earlier event: It looks as though they ___ already eaten. (have / are)

   Show answer or example answer

   have

   have forms the present perfect for an apparent earlier meal.

Use it today

Describe one likely appearance and one imaginary comparison using the two expressions.