The subjunctive mood of a verb expresses either doubt or fact about a condition. It is usually in the if-clause. It is also in clauses after verbs that express a doubt, a wish, regret, request, demand, or proposal.
The subjunctive mood of the verb to be is “be” in the present tense and “were” in the past tense, no matter if the subject is singular or plural.
Some verbs commonly followed by the subjunctive mood are:
ask, demand, determine, insist, move, order, pray, prefer, recommend, regret, request, require, suggest, wish.
The events organizers asked that everyone settle down.
His parents insisted that their grandchild attend an international school.
It is the management’s requirement that she agree to the terms.
You can use the subjunctive mood after the phrases “It is recommended that…” or “We recommend that…”. Use the base form of the verb even if the subject in the clause is a 3rd person singular pronoun.
It is recommended that he take a short break before the tournament.
We recommend that you do what’s best for you.
It is recommended that everyone wear a mask.
Uses of Subjunctive Mood
- Use subjunctive mood to talk about non-factual situations. This kind of statement is usually with an if-clause.
If I were a bird, I would fly all over the world.
If she were him, she’d take the job.
If Jill were rich, she’d buy a house by the beach.
- It is also used to describe a wish.
Roy wishes he were taller.
I wish she were able to travel with me this summer.
She wishes her boyfriend were more romantic.
- Subjunctive mood is also used to express a demand. In this case, follow the subordinate clause with the main clause containing the command.
The host’s requirement is that everyone be dressed appropriately for the event.
The government orders that every citizen stay at home.
Their requirement is that everyone buy a tablet.
- In some cases, you use could, should, or would to express the same sense in subjunctive and conditional.
Conditional: She wishes he would be more ambitious.
Subjunctive: She wishes he were more ambitious.