The subjunctive mood is a fascinating and somewhat elusive aspect of English grammar that often mystifies language learners. While not as commonly used as in other languages like Spanish or French, the English subjunctive plays a crucial role in conveying nuances of uncertainty, desire, necessity, and hypotheticals. One of the key contexts in which the subjunctive appears is in conjunction with certain conjunctions. In this article, we will explore how conjunctions interact with the subjunctive mood, providing a comprehensive guide to help you master this essential aspect of English grammar.
Understanding the Subjunctive Mood
Before diving into the specifics of conjunctions with the subjunctive, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what the subjunctive mood is. The subjunctive is one of the three moods in English, alongside the indicative and the imperative. While the indicative mood is used for statements of fact and the imperative mood for commands, the subjunctive mood is used to express:
1. **Wishes or desires**: “I wish that he were here.”
2. **Necessity or urgency**: “It is essential that she be informed.”
3. **Uncertainty or doubt**: “If I were you, I would reconsider.”
4. **Hypothetical situations**: “Suppose that he arrive late.”
In English, the subjunctive is most often found in certain fixed expressions and in sentences that follow specific conjunctions. Let’s explore these conjunctions in detail.
Conjunctions That Require the Subjunctive
There are several conjunctions in English that typically require the use of the subjunctive mood. These conjunctions often signal a situation that is hypothetical, desired, or necessary. Here are some of the most common conjunctions that trigger the subjunctive:
1. **If**
The conjunction “if” is frequently used to introduce conditional sentences. When the condition is contrary to fact or hypothetical, the subjunctive mood is used. For example:
– **If** I **were** you, I would take the job. (Contrary to fact: I am not you.)
– **If** she **were** to arrive early, we could start the meeting sooner. (Hypothetical situation)
It’s important to note that in these examples, “were” is used instead of “was,” which is the indicative form. This is a hallmark of the subjunctive mood in English.
2. **Though/Although**
The conjunctions “though” and “although” can introduce concessive clauses that express a hypothetical or unreal situation, often requiring the subjunctive:
– **Though** he **be** a brilliant scientist, he lacks social skills. (Hypothetical concession)
– **Although** it **were** raining, they decided to go for a walk. (Unreal situation)
These usages are less common in everyday speech but are still important to recognize and understand.
3. **Unless**
“Unless” introduces a negative conditional clause, and when the condition is unreal or hypothetical, the subjunctive is used:
– We can’t proceed **unless** he **be** present. (Hypothetical requirement)
– They won’t succeed **unless** they **work** harder. (Hypothetical requirement)
In these cases, the subjunctive form “be” is used instead of the indicative “is.”
4. **Suppose/Supposing**
These conjunctions are used to introduce hypothetical situations, often requiring the subjunctive:
– **Suppose** he **arrive** late, what should we do? (Hypothetical situation)
– **Supposing** that she **were** to decline the offer, what would our next step be? (Hypothetical situation)
5. **Provided/Providing (that)**
“Provided” or “providing (that)” introduce conditions that are necessary for something to happen, and when these conditions are hypothetical, the subjunctive is used:
– We will approve the plan **provided** that he **agree** to the terms. (Hypothetical condition)
– **Providing** that she **be** available, we can schedule the meeting for tomorrow. (Hypothetical condition)
6. **As if/As though**
These conjunctions are used to compare a real situation to an unreal or hypothetical one, often requiring the subjunctive:
– He talks **as if** he **were** an expert. (Unreal comparison)
– She acted **as though** she **were** in charge. (Unreal comparison)
Again, note the use of “were” instead of “was” in these subjunctive constructions.
Subjunctive in Formal and Informal Contexts
The use of the subjunctive mood can vary significantly between formal and informal contexts. In formal writing and speech, the subjunctive is more commonly used and expected. In informal contexts, however, you might encounter the indicative mood being used where the subjunctive would traditionally be required. This is especially true in modern English, where the subjunctive is gradually becoming less common in everyday speech.
For example, in formal writing, you might see:
– It is crucial that she **be** informed immediately. (Subjunctive)
In informal speech, you might hear:
– It’s crucial that she **is** informed immediately. (Indicative)
While the second example is technically incorrect according to traditional grammar rules, it is widely accepted in everyday conversation.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Understanding the subjunctive mood and its associated conjunctions is one thing, but using them correctly can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes language learners make and tips on how to avoid them:
1. Using the Indicative Instead of the Subjunctive
This is perhaps the most common mistake. Remember that the subjunctive is used to express hypotheticals, desires, necessities, and doubts. If you find yourself expressing one of these, check if the subjunctive might be required.
Incorrect: If I **was** you, I would apologize.
Correct: If I **were** you, I would apologize.
2. Forgetting the Subjunctive in Fixed Expressions
Certain fixed expressions in English always require the subjunctive, regardless of the context. These include phrases like “God save the Queen” and “so be it.” Make sure to memorize these expressions as they are.
Incorrect: God **saves** the Queen.
Correct: God **save** the Queen.
3. Inconsistency in Formal Writing
In formal writing, consistency is key. If you start using the subjunctive, make sure to maintain that usage throughout your document. Switching between the indicative and the subjunctive can confuse your readers.
Incorrect: It is essential that he **is** prepared and that he **be** on time.
Correct: It is essential that he **be** prepared and that he **be** on time.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of conjunctions with the subjunctive, here are some practice exercises. Try to fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb in parentheses.
1. If he ___ (be) here, he would know what to do.
2. Though she ___ (be) young, she is very wise.
3. Unless he ___ (agree), we cannot proceed.
4. Suppose that she ___ (arrive) early, what should we do?
5. Provided that he ___ (be) available, we can start the project next week.
Answers:
1. were
2. be
3. agree
4. arrive
5. be
Conclusion
Mastering the subjunctive mood and its associated conjunctions is a crucial step in becoming proficient in English. While the subjunctive may seem daunting at first, understanding its usage and practicing regularly will make it second nature. Remember that the subjunctive is often used to express hypotheticals, desires, necessities, and doubts, and certain conjunctions will always trigger its use.
As with any aspect of language learning, consistency and practice are key. Pay attention to how native speakers use the subjunctive in both formal and informal contexts, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes as you practice. Over time, you’ll find that using the subjunctive becomes more intuitive, helping you to express yourself more accurately and effectively in English.
