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Weirdo Subjunctive

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The Weirdo Subjunctive: A Deep Dive into Uncommon Usage



The English subjunctive mood, often described as a "spooky" or "weirdo" grammatical feature, is a verb form that expresses a wish, a suggestion, a demand, or a hypothetical situation. Unlike the indicative mood (used for factual statements) or the imperative mood (used for commands), the subjunctive conveys a sense of uncertainty or non-factuality. While largely disappearing from everyday speech, its remnants persist, particularly in formal writing and specific grammatical constructions. This article delves into these less common, yet vital, usages of the subjunctive, helping you understand and employ it effectively.


1. The "Were" Subjunctive: Hypothetical Situations



The most recognizable form of the "weirdo" subjunctive is the use of "were" with all subjects, even singular ones, in contrary-to-fact situations. This contrasts with the indicative mood where we'd use "was."

Indicative: "He was happy." (Factual statement)
Subjunctive: "If he were here, he would help us." (Hypothetical situation; he is not here)

The subjunctive "were" expresses a condition that is untrue or unlikely. Consider this example: "I wish I were taller." This doesn't mean the speaker is actually taller; it expresses a desire for a different reality. This form is becoming increasingly rare in informal speech, often replaced by "was," but remains essential in formal writing and retains a more sophisticated tone.


2. Subjunctive in That-Clauses after Verbs of Demand, Suggestion, or Request



After verbs expressing demands, suggestions, requests, or recommendations, the subjunctive often appears in a "that"-clause. The subjunctive in this context typically uses the base form of the verb (without "-s" in the third-person singular).

Correct: The teacher insisted that everyone be on time.
Incorrect: The teacher insisted that everyone is on time.

Similar verbs include demand, require, request, recommend, suggest, propose, urge. Note that the subjunctive in this instance is often optional, and the indicative mood might be used instead without significantly altering the meaning, particularly in less formal contexts. However, using the subjunctive maintains a level of formality and precision.


3. Subjunctive in Formal Resolutions and Official Documents



The subjunctive finds a stronghold in formal legal and official contexts. In resolutions, motions, and official pronouncements, it's often used to express a formal decision or mandate.

Example: "The committee moved that the report be tabled for further consideration."

Here, "be" is the subjunctive, conveying a formal motion rather than a simple statement of fact. The indicative "is" would sound less formal and less forceful. This usage demonstrates the subjunctive's role in conveying authority and formality.


4. Subjunctive with "As If" and "As Though"



When using the expressions "as if" and "as though" to describe hypothetical situations, the subjunctive is frequently employed.

Example: He acted as if he were the king. (He is not the king).

The subjunctive "were" highlights the hypothetical nature of his behavior – his actions mimicked those of a king, but he wasn't actually one. Again, while the indicative "was" might be used colloquially, the subjunctive adds a layer of nuance and accuracy.


5. The Fading Subjunctive and Modern Usage



The subjunctive is undeniably fading from common usage in spoken English. Its infrequent use often leads to confusion and inconsistent application. However, understanding its nuances enhances writing precision and formality, particularly in academic, legal, or formal writing styles. The increasing use of the indicative in place of the subjunctive should not be taken as a sign that the subjunctive is dead; rather, it reflects the evolving nature of the English language.


Summary:

The "weirdo" subjunctive, while less frequently used in everyday conversation, maintains its importance in specific grammatical structures and formal writing. Its main functions involve expressing hypothetical situations, conveying wishes, demands, and suggestions, and emphasizing formality in official documents. Although the indicative mood increasingly replaces the subjunctive in informal contexts, mastering the subjunctive enriches one's understanding and usage of the English language, particularly in writing.


FAQs:

1. Is it always necessary to use the subjunctive? No, in many cases, particularly in informal speech, the indicative mood can substitute the subjunctive without significantly altering the meaning. However, using the subjunctive adds formality and precision.

2. How can I identify the subjunctive in a sentence? Look for verbs expressing hypothetical situations, demands, suggestions, or wishes. Also, check for the use of "were" with singular subjects in contrary-to-fact situations or the base form of the verb in "that"-clauses after certain verbs.

3. Is the subjunctive used in the passive voice? Yes, the subjunctive can be used in passive constructions. For example: "It is requested that the proposal be reviewed."

4. What are some common verbs that often take the subjunctive? Common verbs include suggest, recommend, request, demand, insist, require, propose, urge, move.

5. Why is the subjunctive considered less common in modern English? The simplification of grammatical structures in everyday language has contributed to the decline of the subjunctive in informal speech. However, it continues to thrive in formal and specific contexts.

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