Using the Subjunctive in English

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following sentences correctly demonstrates the use of the subjunctive?

It is important that she be at the meeting. (correct)
They suggested that he was invited to the party.
I urge that you finished the report today.
The manager insisted that he works late.

Which phrase is NOT used to express a desire in the subjunctive mood?

I’d like you to start early.
I wish you to attend the event.
I want you to complete the task.
I hope you will choose wisely. (correct)

What is the correct structure for a subjunctive sentence?

verb or expression + base verb + subject + that
verb or expression + subject + to + verb
verb or expression + that + subject + (not) base verb (correct)
verb or expression + that + subject + verbing

Which of the following pairs correctly pairs a verb with its typical expression in the subjunctive?

<p>insist - it is essential (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify the incorrect use of the subjunctive in the following sentences.

<p>They require that he doesn’t use his phone. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Subjunctive

A grammatically distinct verb tense used to express a wish, demand, or suggestion. It is formed by using the base form of the verb.

Subjunctive Sentence Structure

The subjunctive typically follows a specific sentence pattern: 'verb/expression + that + subject + (not) base verb'.

Verbs with Subjunctive

Examples of verbs and expressions that often use the subjunctive include: 'insist','demand', 'request', 'suggest', 'recommend', and 'urge'.

Purpose of Subjunctive

The subjunctive is used to emphasize the importance or urgency of an action.

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Subjunctive with Wishes

Phrases like 'I'd like you + infinitive' and 'I want you + infinitive' express a desire for someone to do something. These are common uses of the subjunctive.

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Study Notes

Using the Subjunctive

The subjunctive emphasizes the importance or urgency of an action.
It uses the base form of the verb.
Example: "The manager insisted that he work late."
Example: "It is important that you be at the meeting."

Subjunctive with Specific Verbs/Expressions

The subjunctive is used with verbs and expressions that convey a strong suggestion or demand.
Examples of these include: ask, request, demand, require, insist, suggest, recommend, urge, its essential, it is imperative, it is important, it is necessary.
The sentence structure is: verb/expression + that + subject + (not) base verb
Example: "It is essential that you dress appropriately."
Example: "She asked that we not be late."