If I was not a plumber, I could easily be a teacher. If I am not a plumber, I could easily be a teacher.

Answer 1

The correct way to write this would be "If I were not a plumber, I could easily have become a teacher.

The reason that "were" is used is that in this sentence it conveys contrast. "If I were not a plumber" indicates a possibility that will not happen. If I were not a plumber (but I am a plumber) is indicated by the subjunctive mood of the "to be" verb.

Answer 2

Peter is correct. Many native speakers would say "was not". They fail to use the "subjunctive mood" This confuses people who are learning English.

Answer 3

Hi Ann,

If you are looking to have your grammar in these two sentences corrected, they should be rewritten as follows:

If I WERE not a plumber, I could easily be a teacher.

If I HAD NOT BECOME a plumber, I could HAVE EASILY BECOME a teacher.