Quote:I'm not talking about grammar but from a logical point of view I would say the word is would.
As it never happened before (millions of deaths), one can only assume it will happen, although we are not sure.
If there's a probability, but we are not completely sure, we should use the word would.
Grammar doesn't determine word choice, Francis. Grammar is dictated by logical points of view, what it is that a speaker wants/needs to say.
You're right that
would would be the most likely choice but that certainly doesn't exclude
will. If a speaker wants to give the feeling that this situation is imminent, that it could happen, say and idiot like Bush ranting about Saddam, then
will would be fine.
It all depends on what the speaker views and the impression the speaker wants to leave.
And it isn't that it is conditional.
will can easily be used in a conditional fashion.
If I go to London, I'll be sure to give McTag a call. =
Upon the condition that I go to London, ...
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