Subjunctive Mood & Formal English

The Subjunctive Mood

The subjunctive is used for wishes, suggestions, demands, and hypothetical situations.

After Verbs of Suggestion/Demand

Use base form (no -s, no past): suggest, recommend, insist, demand, propose, require

• I suggest that he be more careful. (NOT "is")
• She insisted that we leave immediately. (NOT "left")
• It is essential that he attend the meeting.

Wishes

• I wish I were taller. (NOT "was" in formal English)
• If I were you, I would study more.

Formal Expressions

God save the King. | So be it. | Long live the Queen.

Usage in Modern English

The subjunctive is more common in American English. In British English, "should + verb" is often used instead.

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