English Grammar: Subjunctive

1. What is the Subjunctive Mood?

The subjunctive mood is a grammatical mood used to express actions, events, or states that are hypothetical, doubtful, or contrary to fact. It is used to convey ideas such as desires, recommendations, possibilities, doubts, or requirements that are not based on reality. In simpler terms, the subjunctive mood allows us to talk about things that are not necessarily true or certain.

2. Structure of the Subjunctive

The structure of the subjunctive mood varies depending on the verb tense and the type of sentence. However, in most cases, the subjunctive mood is formed by using the base form of the verb (infinitive) without any inflection or addition of the -s or -es endings that are typical of the indicative mood.

For example:

• I suggest that he go to the party. (present subjunctive)
• It’s important that she be on time. (present subjunctive)
• If I were you, I would study harder. (past subjunctive)

In the examples above, notice that the verbs “go,” “be,” and “would” are used in their base form without any changes.

3. Types of Subjunctive

There are two main types of subjunctive mood: the present subjunctive and the past subjunctive.

3.1 Present Subjunctive

The present subjunctive is used to express present actions or states that are unreal, hypothetical, or contrary to fact. It is commonly used in sentences that begin with verbs such as “suggest,” “demand,” “insist,” or “recommend.”

Example:

• It is crucial that he take the necessary precautions. (?)

In the example above, the verb “take” is in the base form, indicating the present subjunctive mood.

3.2 Past Subjunctive

The past subjunctive is used to express past actions or states that are unreal, hypothetical, or contrary to fact. It is often used in sentences that express unreal conditions or wishes.

Example:

• If I were a millionaire, I would travel the world. (?)

In the example above, the verb “were” is used instead of “was” to indicate the past subjunctive mood.

4. Usage and How to Use the Subjunctive

Now that we understand the structure and types of the subjunctive mood, let’s explore its usage and how to use it in sentences.

4.1 Expressing Desires and Wishes

The subjunctive mood is commonly used to express desires and wishes. It allows us to talk about things we want to happen, even if they may not be possible or certain.

Example:

• I wish I were taller. (?)

In this example, the subjunctive form “were” is used to express the speaker’s desire to be taller, even though it may not be a reality.

4.2 Giving Recommendations and Suggestions

The subjunctive mood is also used to give recommendations, suggestions, or express requirements. It indicates that the action is not a certainty but rather a suggestion or requirement.

Example:

• It’s important that you arrive early for the meeting. (?)

Here, the subjunctive form “arrive” is used to convey the speaker’s recommendation for the listener to arrive early.

4.3 Expressing Doubt or Uncertainty

When we want to express doubt or uncertainty about something, we can use the subjunctive mood. It allows us to talk about hypothetical or unreal situations.

Example:

• If I had a magic wand, I would solve all the world’s problems. (?)

In this example, the past subjunctive form “had” is used to express the speaker’s doubt or uncertainty about having a magic wand.

5. Examples of Subjunctive Sentences

Let’s look at a few more examples to solidify our understanding of the subjunctive mood:

1. I suggest that he find a new job. (?)
2. It’s crucial that she be here on time. (?)
3. If I were you, I would apologize. (?)
4. I wish I had more free time. (?)
5. It’s important that they study for the exam. (?)

In each of these sentences, the subjunctive mood is used to express recommendations, requirements, wishes, or hypothetical situations.

6. FAQs about the Subjunctive Mood