The Subjunctive in French
The subjunctive is a verbal mood used to express an uncertain action, a wish, a doubt, an emotion, or a recommendation. It contrasts with the indicative, which is used to express established facts or certainties.
Formation of the Subjunctive
The subjunctive is formed from the root of the verb to which specific endings are added. The endings of the present subjunctive are: -e, -es, -e, -ions, -iez, -ent.
Definition
Example:
parler → que je parle, que tu parles, qu'il/elle parle, que nous parlions, que vous parliez, qu'ils/elles parlent
Usage of the Subjunctive
The subjunctive is used in several different situations:
Definition
1. Expressions of doubt or uncertainty
It is possible that, it seems that, it is likely that, I fear that
2. Expressions of will or wish
I want that, I wish that, I desire that
3. Expressions of recommendation or necessity
It is necessary that, it is recommended that, it is important that
In these situations, the subjunctive is used after the conjunction "que". It is important to note that the subjunctive is more frequent in writing than in speaking.
Exceptions and Particularities
There are some exceptions and particularities regarding the use of the subjunctive:
Definition
1. Irregular verbs
Some verbs have specific forms in the subjunctive. For example, the verb "aller" has the form "que j'aille" in the present subjunctive.
2. Impersonal verbs
Verbs like "être", "faire", and "avoir" are often used in the subjunctive in impersonal expressions. For example, "it is important that you have good grades".
To remember:
The subjunctive in French is a verbal mood used to express uncertain actions, doubts, wishes, emotions, or recommendations. It is formed from the root of the verb and is used after certain conjunctions. There are a few exceptions and particularities in its use. The subjunctive is more frequent in writing than in speaking.
