The Subjunctive Mood: Wishes and Unreal Possibilities
What is Mood in Grammar?
Mood shows the speaker’s attitude towards what they are saying. In English, we have three moods:
- Indicative: For statements of fact or reality.
- Imperative: For commands or requests.
- Subjunctive: For wishes, suggestions, demands, or situations that are not real or are unlikely to happen.
The Subjunctive Mood: Expressing the Unreal
The subjunctive mood is a bit like a magic spell – it lets us talk about things that we wish for, things that could be, or things that aren’t actually happening.
When do we use the subjunctive mood?
Wishes: To express a desire for something that isn’t true.
- Example: I wish I were a bird. (But I’m not.)
- Example: If only it were Friday!
Hypothetical Situations: To talk about things that are possible but not certain.
- Example: If I had more time, I would learn to play the piano.
Contrary-to-Fact Situations: To talk about things that are the opposite of what’s true.
- Example: If I were you, I wouldn’t do that.
Suggestions and Demands: To make a strong suggestion or demand.
- Example: I suggest that he take a break.
- Example: The doctor recommended that she drink more water.
Key Words to Look For:
The following words often signal the use of the subjunctive mood:
- If
- Wish
- If only
- Suggest
- Recommend
- Demand
- Insist
- It is important that
- It is essential that
Form:
The subjunctive mood often uses the base form of the verb (e.g., be, go, do) even when the subject is he/she/it. It can also use the past tense form “were” instead of “was.”
- Example: If I were rich, I would buy a yacht. (Not “If I was rich…”)
Let’s Practice!
Complete the Sentence:
- I wish I _______ (to have) a million dollars! (had)
- If I _______ (to be) you, I would apologize. (were)
- The teacher insists that all students _______ (to be) on time. (be)
Correct the Mistakes:
- If I was taller, I could reach the top shelf. (If I were taller…)
Challenge!
Write a letter to Santa Claus using the subjunctive mood to make wishes for yourself and others.
Remember: The subjunctive mood helps us express our desires, hopes, and unreal possibilities. It adds a touch of imagination to our language!
