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would [ wd ] CORE MEANING: used to express the sense of "will" in reported speech or when referring to an event that has not happened yet
  Susan didn't think she would pass.
It would be wrong to suggest otherwise. |
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1. used with "if" clauses: used in stating what will or suggesting what might happen under the circumstances described in the conditional clause
You would know him if you saw him.
My mother would be annoyed if I were to come home late.
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2. polite request: used in making polite requests or offers
Would you mind closing the window?
Would you like more coffee?
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3. habitual action: used to indicate that a past action was habitual
Every Sunday we would drive out to Coney Island.
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would that used to introduce a strong desire or wish, usually one that is not expected to be fulfilled (formal)
Would that we had never met.
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