“rather than if”, is this a regular expression?
Hi,
I ran into this phrase in a dialogue at BBC Learning English.
The study also says if you think you're good looking, rather than if you actually are, makes you happier.

Can I say(expressing wish):
The study also says if you think you're good looking, rather than (only) if you were, makes you happier.

Thanks a lot~

Question

“rather than if”, is this a regular expression?
Hi, 
I ran into this phrase in a dialogue at BBC Learning English.
>The study also says if you think you're good looking, rather than if you actually are, makes you happier.

Can I say(expressing wish):
>The study also says if you think you're good looking, rather than (only) if you were, makes you happier.

Thanks a lot~

Answer

I would think it clearer to phrase it "The study also says that thinking you're good looking makes you happier than actually being good looking does."  I'm not certain what (expressing wish) means since I don't see a wish being expressed, but I don't think using "were" works in that sentence.

Answer

I think the original phrase is correct.   It sounds more natural.   This grammar is used, but not too common.  good luck!