Learn · Sentences Hypothetical Sentences
If they hadn’t been so busy, they would have helped us with the presentation.
B2Sentence
If they hadn’t been so busy, they would have helped us with the presentation.
Study notes
How to use in different contexts
Giving Advice
If you weren't so busy, you could help with the project.
Describing Habits
They're usually helpful, but their busy schedule prevented them from assisting.
Asking About Others
Would they have helped if they hadn't been so busy?
Sharing Hypotheticals
If they had more free time, they would have gladly helped.
Rephrased versions
Formal
Their lack of available time prevented them from assisting with the presentation.
Casual
They would've helped us out if they weren't so swamped.
Simpler English
They would have helped if they weren't busy.
Phrases to learn
hadn't been so busy
If they had not been occupied with many tasks or activities.
would have helped
Indicates a past action that would have occurred under a different circumstance.