The subjunctive is one of three grammatical moods in English, along with the indicative mood and the imperative mood. It isn’t used very often in English, some languages such as Spanish use it more. Nevertheless, we’ve been asked to talk about it, so here is a podcast that explains when we use the subjunctive and we’ll also share some examples.
Voice message from Rafael from Seville. Can we talk about the subjunctive in English?
The subjunctive is a verb form used to express hypothetical situations, wishes, demands, suggestions, and formal statements. It is less common in English than in some other languages, but it still appears in specific cases. Probably, about 85% of native English speakers have never heard of the Subjunctive and wouldn’t even know when they’re actually using it – this is not an exaggeration! Most of the time it looks identical to the Indicative anyway!!
1. The Subjunctive for Hypothetical Situations
When talking about imaginary or unreal situations, especially with if clauses and expressions like “I wish” or “as if”. We use were instead of was for the verb to be.Everything else is identical to the Indicative
This form is often used to give advice or talk about unreal situations.
Examples:
If I were you, I would take the job.
If Mary were running the company rather than John, things would be very different.
She acts as if she were the manager.
He acts as if he owned the place.
If only she were a bit older, she might not act so stupidly.
I wish you were here.
2. The Subjunctive in Suggestions, Requests, and Demands
After certain verbs like suggest, recommend, insist, demand, require, ask, and adjectives like important, necessary, essential, urgent, we can use the subjunctive.
This is more common in formal writing and polite requests than in informal spoken English, particularly in American English.
The subjunctive form does not take “-s” in the third person singular present form.
Examples:
I suggest (subjunctive) that he go to the doctor. (or indicative “he goes” )
It is important that she be (subjunctive) on time. (or indicative “she is”)
They insisted that he pay (subjunctive) the full amount (or indicative “he pays”)
3. Common verbs and expressions that trigger the subjunctive
Verbs: suggest, recommend, demand, insist, require, ask, propose, urge.
Verbs
Suggest:
“I suggested that she study harder.”
Recommend:
“My doctor recommends that he drink more water.”
Demand:
“The manager demanded that the report be completed by Friday.”
Insist:
“She insists that he pay the bill immediately.”
Require:
“The company requires that every employee wear an ID badge.”
Ask:
“The host asks that each guest bring a dish to share.”
Propose:
“They propose that the meeting be rescheduled.”
Expressions: It’s essential that…, It’s important that…, It’s necessary that…, It’s vital that…
It’s essential that…
“It’s essential that he arrive on time.”
It’s important that…
“It’s important that she understand the instructions.”
It’s necessary that…
“It’s necessary that he attend the meeting.”
It’s vital that…
“It’s vital that we/he/Robert finish the project by the deadline.”
3. The Subjunctive in Fixed Expressions and Formal Statements
Some common phrases use the subjunctive, even in modern English.
These phrases often appear in formal or traditional language.
Examples:
God save the King. (not “saves”)
The contract stipulates that the signatories be fully liable for all expenses incurred.
Heaven help us!
So be it.
Be that as it may, you won’t make me change my mind.
Suffice it to say, the results were surprising.
Let it be.
Come what may, I will support you.
Would that it were (so).
…and now it’s your turn to practise your English.
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