Introduction: Why Learn Alternatives?
Hello! Today we are looking at a topic that sounds a bit "fancy" but is actually something you use every day: Alternatives to the Present Subjunctive.
The present subjunctive is used for things like suggestions, demands, or "what-if" situations (for example: "I suggest that he be careful"). However, in everyday English, we often use other ways to say the same thing that sound more natural and are easier to remember. Don't worry if the word "subjunctive" sounds tricky—we're going to learn the simpler "shortcuts" together!
What is the Present Subjunctive? (A Quick Check)
Before we look at the alternatives, let’s remember what we are replacing. We use the subjunctive after verbs like suggest, insist, recommend, or demand.
The Golden Rule: In the subjunctive, we use the base form of the verb (like be, go, play) no matter who the subject is.
Example: "I insist that she stay." (Notice it’s not "stays"!)
Quick Review Box:
- Subjunctive: Use the base verb.
- Usage: Demands, suggestions, and importance.
1. The "Should" Alternative
In many parts of the world, especially in British English, people prefer to add the word should instead of using the plain subjunctive. This makes the sentence feel a bit more complete and less formal.
How to use it:
Instead of saying "It is essential that he arrive on time," you can say:
"It is essential that he should arrive on time."
Step-by-Step:
1. Identify the suggestion or demand (e.g., I suggest...).
2. Add the word that.
3. Put should before your verb.
Analogy: Think of should like a bridge. It helps connect the "demand" to the "action" smoothly without making the sentence sound stiff.
Key Takeaway: Adding should is a very common way to avoid the formal subjunctive in Junior Secondary writing.
2. The "To-Infinitive" Shortcut
This is probably the most popular alternative! Instead of using a that-clause, we use to + verb. This is much shorter and very common in spoken English.
Compare these two:
Subjunctive: "The teacher recommended that we read the book."
Alternative (To-Infinitive): "The teacher recommended us to read the book."
Did you know?
Verbs like want, ask, tell, and order almost always use this "to" pattern!
Example: "He told me to go" is much more natural than "He demanded that I go."
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don't mix them up! Never say "He told me that I to go." Choose either the "that" way or the "to" way.
Key Takeaway: Using to + verb makes your English sound active and direct.
3. Using the Indicative (Normal Tense)
Sometimes, we just use the normal "everyday" tense. This is common in casual conversation, though your teacher might prefer the other versions for formal essays.
How it looks:
Subjunctive: "It is important that he be here."
Alternative (Normal Tense): "It is important that he is here."
Memory Aid:
Subjunctive = Stiff/Formal (He be)
Indicative = Informal/Casual (He is)
Key Takeaway: In casual speech, people often just use normal tenses (like is, stays, goes) after words like suggest or important.
4. Using "For... To..." Patterns
When you want to say something is important or necessary, you can use the for + [person] + to + [verb] pattern. This is a great tool for your "writing toolbox."
Example:
Instead of: "It is necessary that everyone wear a mask."
Try: "It is necessary for everyone to wear a mask."
Why it works: It clearly shows who needs to do the action without using a complex "that" sentence.
Key Takeaway: The "For... To..." pattern is excellent for instructions and rules.
Summary Checklist
When you want to avoid the formal present subjunctive, you have four main "cheat codes":
1. The "Should" Way: "I suggest he should study."
2. The "To" Way: "I want him to study."
3. The "Casual" Way: "It’s vital he studies."
4. The "For...To" Way: "It’s time for him to study."
Encouraging Phrase: You don't have to master all of these at once! Start by using the should or to-infinitive patterns, as they are the most useful for your school exams and daily life.