Download Subjunctive Form or Mood

Subjunctive Form or Mood
IF I WERE YOU…
In English, the subjunctive is a grammatical mood that is used to express an unreal situation
such as a wish, possibility, or action that may or may not happen.
1. REPORTING SUGGESTIONS
A. The subjunctive form is used for reporting suggestions eg…
Verb of suggestion + that + base verb
Some of the more common verbs of suggestion include:
advise, ask, demand, insist, prefer, propose, recommend, request, suggest, urge.

His boss demanded that he work overtime.

Her teacher suggested that she study for three hours last night.

I prefer that he speak to me directly.
B. The subjunctive form is also used for giving strong suggestions or commands. Adjective of
importance + that + base verb
Some common adjectives that follow this pattern include:
important, necessary, imperative, essential, vital, urgent.

It was important that he call me yesterday.

It is essential that the operator of this machine remain calm during an emergency.

I think it is necessary that your dog be kept on a leash while in this area.
Note: The subjunctive often occurs in clauses that begin with “that.”
Seeing “that” is often a good indication that the subjunctive may be required.
CAUTION! “that” can be dropped in English, so it isn’t always a sure-fire way to spot the
subjunctive. (E.g., I suggested that he study for at least two hours. / I suggested he study for
at least two hours.)
It’s more important to notice the verb or adjective in the main clause:
Is the meaning of the verb “suggestion”?
Is the meaning of the adjective “importance”?
If so, the subjunctive should be used.