Subjunctive Mood
Use the base form of the verb after suggestions, demands, and formal 'if' clauses.
After verbs of suggestion and demand
After verbs like suggest, recommend, insist, demand, and request, use 'that' + subject + base verb (no -s, no past tense), even for he/she/it.
- I suggest that he call you tomorrow.
- The doctor recommended that she rest for a week.
- They insisted that he apologize.
After adjectives of importance
The same pattern is used after phrases like 'it is important/essential/vital that'.
- It is essential that everyone arrive on time.
- It is important that she be informed immediately.
The subjunctive 'were'
In formal or hypothetical statements, use 'were' instead of 'was' for all subjects, especially after 'if' and 'wish'.
- If I were rich, I would travel the world.
- I wish she were here.
- If he were more careful, this wouldn't have happened.
Formal vs everyday English
The subjunctive is more common in formal or written English; in casual speech, people often use the regular form instead.
- Formal: I suggest that he go home. Casual: I suggest he goes home.
- Formal: If I were you... Casual: If I was you... (common but less correct)
More examples in context
The subjunctive appears often in formal requests, rules, and wishes.
- She demanded that he leave immediately.
- It is crucial that the report be accurate.
- The teacher insisted that the students be quiet.
- If I were in charge, I would change the policy.
- He wishes he were taller.
- It is necessary that she attend the meeting.
Common mistakes to avoid
These are frequent subjunctive errors, and how to correct them.
- ✗ I suggest that he calls you. → ✓ I suggest that he call you. (use the base verb, not -s)
- ✗ If I was you, I would go. → ✓ If I were you, I would go. (formal subjunctive)
- ✗ It is important that he is on time. → ✓ It is important that he be on time.
- ✗ They demanded that she leaves. → ✓ They demanded that she leave.
Quick practice
Complete each sentence with the correct subjunctive form, then check your answer.
- I recommend that she ___ (study) harder. (answer: study)
- It is vital that he ___ (be) present. (answer: be)
- If I ___ (be) taller, I would join the team. (answer: were)
- The manager insisted that everyone ___ (attend) the meeting. (answer: attend)
- I wish it ___ (be) summer already. (answer: were)