Response to question from Peter (asked 5 months ago)

Question

Using L'Imparfait in hypothetical clauses introduced by si (if) + Le Conditionnel Présent I had this same question, as I forgot the above lesson, so I thought I should respond as it would save others time. The question related to: 'si je POUVAIS, j'aurais été astronaute.'

Accepted Answer

Bonjour Andrea,
You are spot on, Andrea! Here is the link to Kwiziq's lesson on this very topic: /l-imparfait-usage-in-hypothetical-clauses-introduced-by-si-if-followed-by-le-conditionnel-present
Merci de votre contribution et bonne journée !

Answer

You are correct Andrea - the conditional mood is not used in French in the 'si...' clause in conditional statements, only present or passé composé, imparfait or plus-que parfait. (As common in French there is a specific and restricted exception that can occur in literary use, but irrelevant to most of us in everyday language)
The 'si ...' clause actually sets the condition that 'needs' to be/have been 'met' by the conditional clause. 
 https://www.lawlessfrench.com/grammar/si-clauses-conditionals/
https://www.lawlessfrench.com/grammar/si-clauses-second-conditional/

Answer

Coming last to the party, let me point out the close parallel to English:If I had money, I would by a car. -- Si j'avais de l'argent, j'achèterais une voiture.