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If that happened vs If that happen

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'If that happened' is the correct phrase to use when referring to a past hypothetical situation. 'If that happen' is the correct phrase to use when referring to a present or future hypothetical situation.

Last updated: March 20, 2024

If that happened

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a past hypothetical situation.

This phrase is used to talk about a hypothetical situation that occurred in the past. It is often followed by a consequence or result.

Examples:

  • If that happened, I would have been so surprised.
  • If that happened yesterday, we missed a great opportunity.
  • If that happened to my best friend, I'd stay.
  • If that happened, they would have gotten us by now.
  • Be funny if that happened again.
  • I guess if that happened, you would be burned.
  • It'd be a shame if that happened to you.
  • And if that happened, would France have to follow Russia and...
  • If that happened, the barn would've sent out a pulse.
  • If that happened to me, Pat or Ronnie, I wouldn't be much in the mood for talking it out.
  • If that happened to me and there was nothing I could do about it,
  • We'd have heard if that happened.
  • I'd die if that happened to me.
  • I'm just thinking if that happened to one of my kids.
  • So the judge and I agreed... if that happened, we'd talk.
  • I know if that happened to me, I would be hurt and furious and sad and worried.
  • and what I would do if that happened.
  • She warned me that she may become unavailable, and if that happened, I was to contact you this way.
  • I'd know if that happened.
  • I'm crying because what if that happened in front of our kid?
  • We had an electrical short over at the site, and it may be disrupting people's phone service, and we're wondering if that happened
  • Besides, I think I'd remember if that happened, right?

Alternatives:

  • if that had happened
  • if that were to happen
  • if that had taken place
  • if that had occurred
  • if that had transpired

If that happen

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a present or future hypothetical situation.

This phrase is used to talk about a hypothetical situation that is currently happening or might happen in the future. It is often followed by a consequence or result.

Examples:

  • If that happen, we should be prepared.
  • If that happen tomorrow, it will be a disaster.

Alternatives:

  • if that were to happen
  • if that were to occur
  • if that were to take place
  • if that were to transpire
  • if that were to come to pass

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