in case

[hela]

Dear teachers,

Would you please tell me if we always need the subjunctive after "in case". Which of the following sentences are correct? Do they have the same meaning?

1) a) Take an umbrella in case it rains. (indicative ?)
b) Take an umbrella in case it should rain.
(hypothetical occurrence = subjunctive ?)

c) Take an umbrella in case it rained. (correct ?)

2) a) Let’s stay at home in case Granny should decide to come.
(hypothetical = subjunctive ?)

b) I took my violin in case I should have a chance to play.

Thank you very much for your help.
Hela

[juliancy]

if it's "lest" rather than "in case", subjunctive mood is usual. "lest" is very formal and old-fashioned.

for "in case" it's usual to use indicative mood. where u may argue for using subjunctive mood after "in case", i would say u r trying to sound old-fashioned or very formal as well.

1c doesnt make sense.

[hela]

Hello Julian,

So you would say :
"I take my umbrella lest it rained" or "I take my umbrella in case it rains" ?

And the difference between "in case it rains" and "in case it should rain" is just a question of style / register?

All the best,
Hela