¿Qué es el subjuntivo?

Good question!  The subjunctive is a verb mood.  It can be conjugated in the present and imperfect tenses, as well as in the perfect tenses (with haber).  

• There are 3 moods of verbs

  • Indicative

  • Imperative

  • Subjunctive
    
    

• Indicative Mood

  • Relates a fact, certainty

  • Usually the main verb of a sentence

    • I live in Tahoe.  (Main verb is "live", relates a fact.)

    • We have many friends.  (Main verb is "have", relates a fact.)

    • It is cold today.  (Main verb is "is", relates a fact.)
      
      

• Imperative Mood

  • Gives a command, orders someone to do something

  • Not conjugated, must use appropriate form for the person being addressed

    • Eat!

    • Don't give it to them!

    • Let's go!
      
      

• Subjunctive Mood

  • Can imply doubt, uncertainty, hope

  • Usually dependent upon the main verb of the sentence

    • I doubt that she understands.  
      (Main verb is "doubt," subjunctive verb is "understands.")

    • We hope they have the money. 
      (Main verb is "hope," subjunctive is "have.")

     

• Rules for use of subjunctive in noun clauses

  1. Must have a change of subject in the main verb and dependent verb

     • I hope that she comes.

     • We doubt that the children understand.

     • It's possible that my sister will come.

  2. Main verb implies

     • Will, influence

     • Emotion

     • Doubt (doesn't always need a change of subject)

     • Impersonal Expression

  3. The two verbs are joined by "que."

     • They hope that she is right.

     • We doubt that it will rain.
       

[ Up ] [ ¿Qué es? ] [ Presente del subjuntivo ] [ Usos del subjunctivo ] [ Enlaces al subjuntivo ] [ Práctica del presente del subjuntivo ]

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Created and maintained by N Barclay     02/26/2010