College Composition / Unit 4 CMP 0094 short lesson, about 20 seconds
The Subjunctive
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The idea
The subjunctive mood expresses wishes, requirements, suggestions, or conditions that are hypothetical or unlikely.
In practice
"I wish you were here"; "The rules require that every member be present"; "The board would work better if all members were active."
Where people slip
In a contrary-to-fact condition, standard written English uses were, not was: "if I were in charge."
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
Unlocks
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