Term: Subjunctive

Definition:

The subjunctive is the mood of a verb used to show hopes doubts wishes etc.. It is not used very much in modern British English, surviving in a few expressions such as 'If I were you' in the 2nd Conditional and expressions like 'God save the Queen' and 'so be it'. In American English, the present subjunctive is more common, so people say 'I recommend he be promoted'.

See Also: Modal Verb; Voice; Tense; Aspect

'Subjunctive' - Related Links

Grammar Topic: Verbs and Tenses

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