Correct Use of the Subjunctive Mood: A Guide for Advanced ESL Writers

📚 What is the Subjunctive Mood?

The subjunctive mood is a verb form used to express wishes, suggestions, commands, or conditions that are contrary to fact. It differs from the indicative mood, which states facts, and the imperative mood, which gives direct commands. Think of it as the mood of 'what if' and 'should be' rather than 'is'.

📜 A Brief History

The subjunctive mood has roots in Latin and was much more common in older forms of English. Over time, its usage has declined, but it remains essential for formal writing and specific grammatical constructions. Understanding its historical context helps appreciate its nuances and proper application today.

🔑 Key Principles of Subjunctive Usage

• 🧪 'That' Clauses After Demand Verbs: This often involves verbs like demand, insist, suggest, request, require, and recommend. In these constructions, the verb in the 'that' clause takes the base form (no '-s' or '-ed'). Example: I insist that he be on time.
• 🙏 Expressing Wishes and Desires: Use 'were' instead of 'was' for all persons when expressing a wish or a condition contrary to fact. Example: I wish I were taller. (Even though 'I' usually takes 'was'.)
• 🤝 'If' Clauses Expressing Hypothetical Situations: Similar to wishes, use 'were' to describe hypothetical or untrue scenarios. Example: If I were you, I would study harder.
• 💼 Formal 'Be' Clauses: In formal writing, the subjunctive 'be' is used after certain adverbs such as lest, come what may, or in set phrases. Example: Be that as it may,...
• 👑 Using 'God Save the Queen' Formulations: This is a fossilized subjunctive used in fixed expressions to convey wishes for positive outcomes. Example: God save the Queen!
• ⚖️ Using 'As if/though' Clauses: We use the subjunctive with these phrases to describe situations that are not true. Example: He acts as if he were the king.
• 🤓 Avoiding Common Mistakes: One common error is using the indicative mood (present or past tense) when the subjunctive is required, especially after demand verbs. Another is misusing 'was' instead of 'were' in hypothetical statements.

🌍 Real-World Examples

Let's explore some examples of the subjunctive mood in everyday contexts:

💡 Tips for Mastering the Subjunctive

• 📖 Read Widely: Expose yourself to formal writing and literature to observe the subjunctive in action.
• ✍️ Practice Regularly: Write sentences using the subjunctive mood in various contexts.
• 🧐 Seek Feedback: Ask a teacher or advanced English speaker to review your writing and provide corrections.
• 🧠 Focus on Key Triggers: Memorize the verbs and expressions that commonly trigger the subjunctive.

📝 Conclusion

The subjunctive mood, while complex, adds precision and formality to your writing. By understanding its principles and practicing its application, you can elevate your ESL writing to a higher level. Keep practicing and you'll get there!