Topic 1.8.2 Subjuntive Mood

When Do We Use the Subjunctive Mood?

The subjunctive mood is primarily used in dependent clauses that are introduced by expressions indicating necessity, suggestion, demand, or a hypothetical condition.

1. After Certain Verbs:

The subjunctive is used after certain verbs that express:

• Requests (e.g., request, ask)
  • “The manager requests that the report be submitted on time.”
• Recommendations (e.g., recommend, suggest)
  • “I recommend that he attend the meeting.”
• Demands (e.g., demand, insist)
  • “They insist that the team complete the project by Friday.”
• Necessities (e.g., require, urge)
  • “It is necessary that she be informed of the changes.”

Structure:

• Verb + that + subject + base form of verb

2. After Certain Adjectives:

The subjunctive is used after adjectives that express importance or urgency:

• Important
  • “It is important that the presentation start on time.”
• Essential
  • “It is essential that every employee be present.”
• Necessary
  • “It is necessary that the budget be revised.”

Structure:

• Adjective + that + subject + base form of verb

3. After Certain Expressions:

The subjunctive mood is also used after formal expressions:

• It is important that…
  • “It is important that she respond to the client’s email promptly.”
• It is crucial that…
  • “It is crucial that we meet the deadline.”
• It is recommended that…
  • “It is recommended that everyone arrive 10 minutes early.”

4. In Hypothetical Situations (Wishes, Conditions):

In conditional sentences, the subjunctive is used for wishes or hypothetical situations:

• If I were (instead of “If I was” for formal situations)
  • “If I were in your position, I would suggest starting earlier.”
• I wish (to express desires or regrets)
  • “I wish the meeting were shorter.”

Forms of the Subjunctive Mood:

1. Present Subjunctive:

   • The base form of the verb is used, regardless of the subject.
   • “It is essential that she submit the proposal by noon.”
   • “The CEO insists that all employees be on time.”

2. Past Subjunctive:

   • For the verb “to be,” use were for all subjects, even singular ones, to express hypothetical situations.
   • “If I were the manager, I would approve the budget.”

3. Negative Subjunctive:

   • To negate the subjunctive mood, simply add “not” before the verb.
   • “The board insisted that the project not be delayed.”

Why is the Subjunctive Mood Important in Business English?

In business communication, it is essential to express formality, tact, and professionalism. The subjunctive mood allows speakers to:

• Make polite and formal requests.
• Provide recommendations and suggestions diplomatically.
• Express necessity or urgency without sounding too direct.
• Discuss hypothetical scenarios or strategies in meetings.

Example in Business Context:

• “It is crucial that the team finish the project by Friday.”
• “The client requests that the contract be revised.”

Key Points to Remember:

1. The subjunctive mood uses the base form of the verb (no “-s” for third-person singular).
2. It is commonly used with verbs or adjectives that indicate recommendations, requests, demands, or importance.
3. In hypothetical situations (after “if” or “wish”), “were” is used for all subjects instead of “was.”
4. The subjunctive is formal and often used in business or official contexts.