Double-click on any word and see its definition from Cambridge Dictionaries Online
The subjunctive is used in formal English when we wish to express the importance of something. It usually follows verbs like recommend, insist or suggest, and other words that express these ideas, such as vital, important or essential.
The subjunctive looks like the infinitive form of the verb, and all persons (including the third person singular) are written or spoken without an "s". It takes the same form whether we are referring to the present, future or past.
 |
 |
|
We recommend that all staff acknowledge receipt of this memo. |
|
|
|
They insisted that we go with them. |
|
|
|
It is vital that children remain in the school grounds until their parents arrive. |
|
|
|
They claimed it was essential that the security system be checked. |
In the negative form, the subjunctive does not take the word do:
|
|
|
They insisted that we not stay behind. |
|
|
|
It is vital that children not leave the school grounds until their parents arrive. |
Note that the subjunctive form of the verb to be is be for all persons:
|
|
|
I be / you be / he be / she be, etc. |
We do not have to use the subjunctive, and in fact we commonly avoid it (especially in British English) by using the structure should + infinitive:
|
|
|
We recommend that all staff should acknowledge receipt of this memo. |
|
|
|
They insisted that we should go with them. |
|
|
|
It is vital that children should remain in the school grounds until their parents arrive. |
|
|
|
They claimed it was essential that the security system should be checked. |
The subjunctive is also used in some fixed phrases:
|
|
|
Be that as it may, you are still required to attend. |
|
|
|
If they insist on that attitude, then so be it. |
|
|
|
Heaven forbid! |
|
|
|
God save the Queen! |
The use of the verb form were in some conditional sentences is also a form of the subjunctive:
|
|
|
If I were you, I'd see a doctor. |
|
|
|
He wishes he were here with you. |
More information on the subjunctive:
http://my.netian.com/~scorpius/englishgrammar/subjunctive/sverbs.htm
http://my.netian.com/~scorpius/englishgrammar/subjunctive/mood.htm
http://my.netian.com/~scorpius/englishgrammar/subjunctive/wish.htm
| 
