The subjunctive mood in English is used to express wishes, suggestions, demands, or hypothetical situations that are contrary to fact. To use it correctly in formal writing, you typically use the base form of a verb (e.g., 'be' instead of 'is' or 'are') in clauses following verbs of command or recommendation, or the verb 'were' (instead of 'was') for hypothetical scenarios.
Mastering how to use the subjunctive mood in English is a hallmark of an advanced writer, adding a layer of precision and formality to your work. While it may sound complex, its rules are quite logical. This guide will break down its two main uses with clear examples to help you confidently incorporate this grammatical form into your formal writing.
What is the difference between the subjunctive and indicative moods?
Before diving into the rules, it's helpful to understand what the subjunctive mood *is*. Most sentences are in the indicative mood, which is used to state facts or ask questions. For example, "She is the project manager" is a factual statement.
The subjunctive mood, in contrast, deals with the non-factual and the unreal. It doesn't describe what *is*, but rather what someone wants, suggests, or imagines could be. It's a mood of possibility, necessity, or unreality.
How to use the subjunctive mood in English for demands and recommendations?
One of the most common uses of the subjunctive in formal and professional English is in clauses that follow verbs of suggestion, demand, or recommendation. This form is often called the mandative subjunctive.
The structure is: Verb of demand/suggestion + that + subject + base form of the verb
The key is to use the verb's simplest form (the infinitive without 'to'), regardless of the subject.
Common verbs that trigger this subjunctive form include:
- Suggest
- Recommend
- Demand
- Insist
- Request
- Propose
- Require
- Ask
It's also used after expressions like "It is essential that...", "It is vital that...", and "It is important that...".
Examples in Formal Writing
- Incorrect (Indicative): The board recommended that the new policy *is* implemented immediately.
- Correct (Subjunctive): The board recommended that the new policy be implemented immediately.
- Incorrect (Indicative): The professor insists that every student *submits* their essay on time.
- Correct (Subjunctive): The professor insists that every student submit their essay on time.
- Incorrect (Indicative): It is vital that she *is* present at the meeting.
- Correct (Subjunctive): It is vital that she be present at the meeting.
How do you use the subjunctive mood for hypothetical situations?
Another critical application of how to use the subjunctive mood in English is for expressing hypothetical or unreal situations. This is most common in conditional sentences (using 'if') and after the verb 'wish'.
For this, you use the subjunctive verb 'were' for all subjects, including first and third-person singular (I, he, she, it).
Using the Subjunctive 'Were' with 'If'
Use 'were' to discuss a situation that is contrary to the present reality.
- Example 1: If I were the CEO, I would invest more in research and development. (Reality: I am not the CEO.)
- Example 2: She would have more time for her hobbies if she were not so dedicated to her work. (Reality: She is very dedicated to her work.)
Using the Subjunctive 'Were' with 'Wish'
Use 'were' after 'wish' to express a desire for a different reality.
- Example 1: I wish I were able to attend the conference in Geneva. (Reality: I am not able to attend.)
- Example 2: The team wishes it were Friday already. (Reality: It is not Friday.)
In conclusion, while the subjunctive mood may be less common in casual conversation, a solid understanding of how to use the subjunctive mood in English is indispensable for high-level formal, academic, and professional writing. By applying it correctly in recommendations and hypothetical clauses, you demonstrate a sophisticated command of English grammar.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Subjunctive Mood
Is the subjunctive mood common in everyday English?
In casual, spoken English, the subjunctive is becoming less common. For instance, you will often hear people say "If I was you..." instead of the grammatically correct "If I were you." However, in formal writing, sticking to the proper subjunctive form is essential for clarity and correctness.
What is the difference between the subjunctive and indicative mood?
The indicative mood states facts, opinions, or asks questions about reality (e.g., "He is here."). The subjunctive mood expresses non-factual situations, such as wishes, demands, or hypotheticals (e.g., "I demand that he be here.").
Can you give an example of the subjunctive with the verb 'to have'?
Certainly. Following the rule for demands/suggestions, you would use the base form 'have'. For example: "The contract requires that each party have independent legal counsel."
When should I use 'if I was' versus 'if I were'?
Use "if I were" for hypothetical, unreal, or impossible situations ("If I were an astronaut..."). Use "if I was" to describe a real possibility in the past. For example: "If I was rude to you yesterday, I apologise." (It's possible I was rude). In formal writing, when in doubt, "if I were" is often the safer choice for conditionals.