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Latest post Thu, May 14 2009 2:05 AM by AlpheccaStars. 2 replies.
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BlackBlitz  +  728428 Wed, 13 May 09 05:14 PM

What’s the difference between modals and the English subjunctive?

 

1. “He should go”. = “It is necessary that he go”.

 

Is the sentence with the modal a subjunctive? If not, what is it?

 

And what about the other modals, “can, would, could, will”.

 

Also, in the imperative mood:

 

1. “Do your homework!”

 

2. “You must do your homework!”

 

3. “It is required that you do your homework!”

 

What are the sentence moods of the above sentences?

 

Basically, I need to know the difference between modals and the subjunctive/imperative mood. Thanks.

Joined on Sat, Mar 28 2009
Junior Member 55
Kooyeen  +  728499 Wed, 13 May 09 06:29 PM
BlackBlitz
“What’s the difference between modals and the English subjunctive?”


Modal verbs are often found in sentences with the subjunctive, but not always. Modal verbs can be used in A LOT of different ways and situations, so it depends.

BlackBlitz

1. “He should go”. = “It is necessary that he go”.

 

Is the sentence with the modal a subjunctive? If not, what is it?


I don't think that's a subjunctive, and I really don't know what it is, LOL. I just call it "suggestion-should": He should go => He'd better go => I suggest he go...

BlackBlitz
“What are the sentence moods of the above sentences?”

1 = Imperative

2 & 3 = Indicative


But that's just my opinion, I don't really know what to call all that grammar stuff.

Joined on Thu, Dec 22 2005
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AlpheccaStars  +  728918 Thu, 14 May 09 02:05 AM
This link gives a comprehensive description of the subjunctive mood.

There is a consistent relationship with the subjunctive and the modal "would" (the verbs in the subjunctive mood are in yellow)


If I were you, I would read the referenced link.  >> Past subjunctive in the if-clause, modal "would" + present in the main clause.

If I had known the link location, I would have posted it.  >> Past perfect subjunctive in the if-clause,  would + present perfect in the main clause.


In expressing wishes, the modal would + subjunctive can be used:


I wish you would stop talking so loud. >> (a wish for the future; modal "would")

She wished that he had asked her to marry him. >>(a wish for the past)

I wish you were here with me.  >> (a wish for the present)


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