Moods: Indicative: Facts, statements, questions

Indicative Mood: The Everyday Mood of Language

What is mood in grammar?

In grammar, mood refers to the attitude or intention of the speaker or writer. It shows how they feel about what they’re saying. In English, there are three main moods:

• Indicative Mood: Used for statements of fact, opinions, and questions.
• Imperative Mood: Used for commands or requests.
• Subjunctive Mood: Used for hypothetical or wishful situations.

Indicative Mood: The Most Common Mood

The indicative mood is the most common mood in English. We use it all the time in everyday conversation and writing.

When do we use the indicative mood?

1. To state facts:

   • Example: The sun rises in the east.

2. To express opinions:

   • Example: I think chocolate is delicious.

3. To ask questions:

   • Example: What time is it?

Examples of Indicative Mood in Different Sentence Types:

• Statements: The cat is sleeping.
• Questions: Is the cat sleeping?
• Exclamations: What a cute cat!
• Negative Statements: The cat is not sleeping.

Let’s Practice!

1. Identify the Indicative Mood:

   • Which of the following sentences are in the indicative mood?
     • The flowers are blooming. (Indicative)
     • Please pass the salt. (Not indicative – imperative mood)
     • If I were you, I would study harder. (Not indicative – subjunctive mood)

2. Change the Mood:

   • Change these sentences to the imperative or subjunctive mood:
     • The dog is barking. (Imperative: Be quiet, dog!)
     • I am hungry. (Subjunctive: I wish I weren’t hungry.)

Challenge!

Write a short paragraph about your favorite place to visit. Use the indicative mood to describe the place and your experiences there.