Subjunctive Mood

Teaches how to express hypothetical or non-real situations. Often used in formal writing and advanced literature.

Subjunctive Mood

The subjunctive mood is a verb form used to express hypothetical, wishful, imaginary, or contrary-to-fact conditions, as distinct from the indicative mood (which states facts) and the imperative mood (which gives commands). Tenth-grade instruction should frame the subjunctive mood as a sophisticated grammatical tool that allows writers to move beyond concrete reality into the realm of possibility, necessity, and speculation, especially important in academic, literary, and formal writing. Teach the standard subjunctive constructions, including "if...were" contrary-to-fact conditionals ("If I were president..."), expressions of wishes or desires ("I wish he were here"), and that-clauses following verbs expressing demands, recommendations, or necessities ("The committee requires that he submit his report by Friday"). Focus on the distinctive verb forms of the subjunctive—the use of "were" instead of "was" for all persons in contrary-to-fact conditions, and the use of the base form of the verb without -s ending in the present subjunctive ("The professor insists that each student write a research paper")—which often cause confusion because they contradict the normal rules of subject-verb agreement. Implement comparative analysis activities where students distinguish between subjunctive and indicative usage in similar sentences ("If I was late, I apologize" versus "If I were you, I would apologize"), discussing how the mood choice reflects either actual or hypothetical situations. Address the evolution of subjunctive usage in contemporary English, acknowledging that while some traditional subjunctive forms are becoming less common in casual speech, they remain essential in formal, academic, and literary contexts where precision matters. Connect subjunctive mood to literary analysis by examining how authors use this mood to develop themes related to aspiration, regret, possibility, and alternative realities, particularly in works that explore characters' unfulfilled desires or imagined scenarios that contrast with their actual circumstances.

Questions:114
Difficulty:Advanced
Grade:10th Grade

1. Which sentence correctly uses the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I wish I was able to attend the party yesterday.
  • B.I wish I were able to attend the party yesterday.
  • C.I wished I was able to attend the party yesterday.
  • D.I wish I am able to attend the party yesterday.

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood uses 'were' instead of 'was' after 'wish' to express a contrary-to-fact or hypothetical situation.

2. In which sentence is the subjunctive mood correctly used?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The teacher insisted that the student completes his homework.
  • B.The teacher insisted that the student completed his homework.
  • C.The teacher insisted that the student complete his homework.
  • D.The teacher insisted that the student will complete his homework.

Explanation:

After verbs like 'insist,' 'demand,' 'request,' etc., followed by 'that,' we use the base form of the verb without the 's' ending in the subjunctive mood.

3. Which of the following is NOT a common trigger for the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I suggest that he...
  • B.It is essential that she...
  • C.I believe that they...
  • D.The committee demands that he...

Explanation:

'Believe' expresses certainty or opinion, not a demand, recommendation, or hypothetical situation, so it does not trigger the subjunctive mood.

4. Identify the subjunctive mood in this sentence: 'If I were you, I would accept the offer.'

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I
  • B.were you
  • C.I would
  • D.accept the offer

Explanation:

'Were' is in the subjunctive mood, used in a contrary-to-fact condition. In the indicative mood, it would be 'was,' but the subjunctive requires 'were.'

5. The subjunctive mood is used to express hypothetical or non-factual situations.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is indeed used to express wishes, suggestions, demands, and hypothetical situations that are contrary to fact or reality.

6. In the sentence 'I demand that he be on time,' the word 'be' is in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Be' is in the subjunctive mood because it follows 'demand that,' which requires the subjunctive. The indicative would be 'is.'

7. Which of the following sentences contain the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.If I was the president, I would lower taxes.
  • B.I wish she were more considerate of others.
  • C.It is crucial that the document be signed today.
  • D.The doctor suggested that he takes his medicine daily.
  • E.The committee recommended that she represent the company.

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood appears in: 'I wish she were' (not 'was'), 'that the document be signed' (not 'is signed'), and 'that she represent' (not 'represents').

8. Which verbs commonly trigger the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Demand
  • B.Think
  • C.Suggest
  • D.Believe
  • E.Insist
  • F.Know

Explanation:

Verbs that express demands, suggestions, or necessity like 'demand,' 'suggest,' and 'insist' trigger the subjunctive. Verbs expressing certainty or belief like 'think,' 'believe,' and 'know' do not.

9. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The professor asked that the paper is submitted by Friday.
  • B.The professor asked that the paper be submitted by Friday.
  • C.The professor asked that the paper will be submitted by Friday.
  • D.The professor asked that the paper being submitted by Friday.

Explanation:

After 'asked that,' the subjunctive form 'be submitted' is correct, not 'is submitted,' which would be indicative mood.

10. In the sentence 'If he were taller, he could reach the shelf,' which word indicates the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If
  • B.were
  • C.taller
  • D.could

Explanation:

'Were' indicates the subjunctive mood. The indicative would be 'was,' but 'were' is used to express a contrary-to-fact condition.

11. In modern English, the subjunctive mood is becoming less common in casual speech.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is indeed becoming less common in casual modern English, though it remains important in formal writing and certain fixed expressions.

12. Which of these expressions typically signal the use of the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.It is necessary that
  • B.I hope that
  • C.It is essential that
  • D.I know that
  • E.It is imperative that

Explanation:

Expressions like 'it is necessary/essential/imperative that' signal the subjunctive mood because they express necessity or requirement. 'Hope' and 'know' do not trigger the subjunctive.

13. Identify the sentence that does NOT use the subjunctive mood correctly.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I wish I were able to help you.
  • B.The judge ordered that the defendant remain in custody.
  • C.It is vital that she arrives on time.
  • D.If she were more careful, this wouldn't have happened.

Explanation:

In 'It is vital that she arrives on time,' the subjunctive mood requires 'arrive' without the 's' ending after 'it is vital that.'

14. The subjunctive mood is only used in the past tense.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood can be used in both present and past contexts. For example, 'I suggest that he leave now' (present subjunctive) and 'If I were rich, I would travel' (past subjunctive).

15. In the sentence 'Long live the king!' which word is in the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.Long
  • B.live
  • C.the
  • D.king

Explanation:

'Live' is in the subjunctive mood in this optative expression, which expresses a wish. Notice that 'lives' would be the indicative form for a third-person singular subject.

16. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.The boss insisted that Mark stays late to finish the project.
  • B.I move that the meeting be adjourned.
  • C.She requested that he brings the documents tomorrow.
  • D.It is imperative that you be honest about what happened.
  • E.If I was in her position, I would do the same thing.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'the meeting be adjourned' (not 'is') and 'you be honest' (not 'are'). The others should be 'Mark stay,' 'he bring,' and 'If I were.'

17. In which sentence is the subjunctive mood used correctly?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If she was here, she would help us.
  • B.I wish it was possible to turn back time.
  • C.The doctor recommended that he takes the medicine twice daily.
  • D.It is important that he be present at the meeting.

Explanation:

The correct subjunctive form is 'he be present' after 'it is important that.' The others should be 'If she were,' 'I wish it were,' and 'he take.'

18. In the sentence 'Far be it from me to criticize,' the phrase 'far be it' uses the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Far be it' is a fixed expression using the subjunctive mood. In the indicative, it would be 'far is it.'

19. Which of the following is an example of the mandative subjunctive?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I were you, I'd reconsider.
  • B.The committee requests that he submit his report by Friday.
  • C.I wish it were summer all year long.
  • D.Were he to arrive early, we could begin sooner.

Explanation:

The mandative subjunctive expresses demands or requirements, as in 'requests that he submit.' The others are examples of the hypothetical subjunctive or formulaic subjunctive.

20. In which contexts is the subjunctive mood commonly used? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.To express facts
  • B.To express wishes
  • C.To express commands
  • D.To express certainty
  • E.To express hypothetical situations

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is used to express wishes, commands, and hypothetical situations—not facts or certainty, which use the indicative mood.

21. In the phrase 'God save the Queen,' the word 'save' is in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Save' is in the subjunctive mood in this expression, which is a wish or prayer. Notice that the indicative form would be 'saves' for a third-person singular subject.

22. Which sentence contains a verb in the past subjunctive?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I suggest that she leave immediately.
  • B.The judge demanded that the witness tell the truth.
  • C.If she were more patient, she would be a better teacher.
  • D.It is essential that everyone be on time.

Explanation:

'Were' in 'If she were more patient' is the past subjunctive. The other examples use the present subjunctive forms 'leave,' 'tell,' and 'be.'

23. Which features distinguish the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Using 'were' for all persons in hypothetical situations
  • B.Using the base form of the verb after certain expressions
  • C.Always adding 's' to third-person singular verbs
  • D.Using 'would' in the main clause
  • E.Omitting 's' in third-person singular present tense

Explanation:

The subjunctive uses 'were' for all persons in hypothetical situations, the base form after certain expressions, and omits the 's' in third-person singular. Adding 's' is a feature of the indicative mood, and 'would' can appear in conditional sentences but is not specific to the subjunctive.

24. The subjunctive mood is never used in questions.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood can be used in questions, particularly in formal or literary contexts, such as 'Would that it were so simple?' or 'What would you do if you were in my position?'

25. In the sentence 'Be that as it may, we must continue,' which word is in the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.Be
  • B.that
  • C.it
  • D.may

Explanation:

'Be' is in the subjunctive mood in this fixed expression, which concedes a point before making another. The indicative would be 'That is as it may be.'

26. Which words often signal the use of the subjunctive mood in if-clauses? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Were
  • B.Was
  • C.Had
  • D.Did
  • E.Should

Explanation:

'Were,' 'had,' and 'should' can signal the subjunctive in if-clauses, as in 'If I were rich,' 'Had I known,' and 'Should you need help.' 'Was' and 'did' are indicative forms.

27. The sentence 'I wish I was taller' correctly uses the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The sentence incorrectly uses 'was' instead of the subjunctive 'were.' The correct form would be 'I wish I were taller.'

28. Identify the sentence with the correct use of the subjunctive mood.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The director insisted that the actor learns his lines.
  • B.The director insisted that the actor learned his lines.
  • C.The director insisted that the actor learn his lines.
  • D.The director insisted that the actor will learn his lines.

Explanation:

After 'insisted that,' the subjunctive form 'learn' (without 's') is correct. The other options use indicative forms 'learns,' 'learned,' and 'will learn.'

29. Which of these sentences contain the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.If I had studied harder, I would have passed the exam.
  • B.I demand that he apologizes for his behavior.
  • C.She acts as if she owns the place.
  • D.The teacher requested that they be quiet.
  • E.Were I in your position, I would do the same.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'If I had studied' (past perfect subjunctive), 'they be quiet' (present subjunctive), and 'Were I in your position' (inverted subjunctive). The others should be 'he apologize' and 'as if she owned.'

30. The subjunctive mood is often used after the phrase 'as though.'

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive is indeed often used after 'as though' to express hypothetical or contrary-to-fact situations, as in 'He acts as though he were the boss.'

31. In which sentence is the present subjunctive correctly used?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I recommend that she goes to the doctor.
  • B.I recommend that she go to the doctor.
  • C.I recommend that she went to the doctor.
  • D.I recommend that she will go to the doctor.

Explanation:

The present subjunctive 'go' (without 's') is correct after 'recommend that.' The others use indicative forms 'goes,' 'went,' and 'will go.'

32. Which expression does NOT typically trigger the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.It is crucial that
  • B.I insist that
  • C.I believe that
  • D.The committee suggests that

Explanation:

'I believe that' expresses certainty or opinion, not a demand, recommendation, or hypothetical situation, so it does not trigger the subjunctive mood.

33. The subjunctive mood is always formed using the past tense of the verb.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is not always formed using the past tense. The present subjunctive uses the base form of the verb, as in 'I suggest that he leave now.'

34. In which sentence is the past perfect subjunctive correctly used?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I had known earlier, I would help.
  • B.If I had known earlier, I would have helped.
  • C.If I knew earlier, I would have helped.
  • D.If I would have known earlier, I would have helped.

Explanation:

The past perfect subjunctive 'had known' is correctly paired with 'would have helped' to express a contrary-to-fact condition in the past.

35. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.The teacher suggested that the student writes an essay.
  • B.I wish it would rain today.
  • C.It is necessary that she be informed of the changes.
  • D.If I were you, I wouldn't worry about it.
  • E.Were you to ask me, I would say yes.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'she be informed,' 'If I were you,' and 'Were you to ask me.' 'The student write' would be correct, and 'I wish it would rain' is not subjunctive but uses the conditional mood.

36. The verb 'to be' has distinct forms in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The verb 'to be' does have distinct forms in the subjunctive: 'be' for the present subjunctive (e.g., 'I demand that he be present') and 'were' for the past subjunctive (e.g., 'If I were rich').

37. Which sentence contains an inverted subjunctive construction?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I were in charge, things would be different.
  • B.Were I in charge, things would be different.
  • C.I wish I were in charge.
  • D.It is essential that I be in charge.

Explanation:

'Were I in charge' is an inverted subjunctive construction, where the verb comes before the subject instead of using 'if.' This is a more formal or literary construction.

38. In the sentence 'If need be, we can reschedule,' the phrase 'need be' uses the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Need be' is a fixed expression using the subjunctive mood. In the indicative, it would be 'if need is.'

39. Which of the following pairs of sentences BOTH correctly use the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.'I wish I was taller' and 'She demands that he explains'
  • B.'If I were you' and 'I suggest that she goes'
  • C.'I wish I were taller' and 'She demands that he explain'
  • D.'If I was you' and 'I suggest that she go'

Explanation:

Both 'I wish I were taller' and 'She demands that he explain' correctly use the subjunctive forms 'were' and 'explain' (without 's').

40. Which modal verbs can be used to express the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Would
  • B.Will
  • C.Should
  • D.Can
  • E.Might

Explanation:

'Would,' 'should,' and 'might' can express the subjunctive mood, particularly in conditional or hypothetical situations. 'Will' and 'can' generally express the indicative mood.

41. The subjunctive mood is required after the phrase 'would rather.'

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive is indeed required after 'would rather' when followed by a that-clause, as in 'I would rather that he were here.'

42. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a formal command?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The judge ordered that the defendant is remanded in custody.
  • B.The judge ordered that the defendant be remanded in custody.
  • C.The judge ordered that the defendant was remanded in custody.
  • D.The judge ordered that the defendant will be remanded in custody.

Explanation:

The subjunctive 'be remanded' is correct after 'ordered that.' The others use indicative forms 'is remanded,' 'was remanded,' and 'will be remanded.'

43. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.I wish that he stops talking.
  • B.The doctor recommended that she rest for a few days.
  • C.If she was here, she would know what to do.
  • D.Had I known about the problem, I would have fixed it.
  • E.It is imperative that everyone arrives on time.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'she rest' and 'Had I known.' The others should be 'he stop,' 'If she were here,' and 'everyone arrive.'

44. In English, the distinction between the indicative and subjunctive moods is clearest with the verb 'to be.'

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

This is true because 'to be' has distinct forms in the subjunctive ('be' and 'were') that differ noticeably from its indicative forms ('am,' 'is,' 'are,' 'was').

45. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood in a formulaic expression?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I were a rich man, I wouldn't have to work hard.
  • B.The manager insisted that John be on time.
  • C.Be that as it may, we must continue.
  • D.I would rather she were here.

Explanation:

'Be that as it may' is a formulaic expression using the subjunctive mood. The others use the subjunctive in hypothetical, mandative, and preference contexts, respectively.

46. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the subjunctive mood in English?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.It often expresses hypothetical situations.
  • B.It is used after verbs of suggestion and command.
  • C.It has distinctive forms for all tenses and persons.
  • D.It can be used in fixed expressions and idioms.

Explanation:

Unlike some other languages, English does not have distinctive subjunctive forms for all tenses and persons. The subjunctive is often identical to other forms, especially in the present tense.

47. In the sentence 'If only he were more careful,' the word 'were' is in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Were' is in the subjunctive mood after 'if only,' which expresses a wish. The indicative would be 'was.'

48. Which of these clauses contain verbs in the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A....that the meeting be postponed
  • B....if I were in Paris
  • C....although she was upset
  • D....as if he owned the place
  • E....should you change your mind

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'be postponed,' 'I were in Paris,' and 'should you change your mind.' 'She was upset' is indicative, and 'as if he owned' should be subjunctive 'as if he were to own.'

49. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a conditional contrary to fact?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I was president, I would lower taxes.
  • B.If I am president, I will lower taxes.
  • C.If I were president, I would lower taxes.
  • D.If I had been president, I will lower taxes.

Explanation:

'If I were president' correctly uses the past subjunctive to express a present hypothetical condition. 'If I was president' is commonly used in casual speech but is technically incorrect in formal contexts.

50. The present subjunctive is formed using the base form of the verb.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The present subjunctive does use the base form of the verb, which is why we say 'I suggest that he go' rather than 'goes,' even though 'he' is third-person singular.

51. Which of the following sentences contain a properly used subjunctive verb? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.I wish that tomorrow be a sunny day.
  • B.I wish that tomorrow were a sunny day.
  • C.The board proposes that she becomes the new CEO.
  • D.The board proposes that she become the new CEO.
  • E.Had he arrived earlier, we might have finished on time.

Explanation:

The subjunctive is correctly used in 'tomorrow were' (past subjunctive after 'wish'), 'she become' (present subjunctive after 'proposes that'), and 'Had he arrived' (inverted past perfect subjunctive). 'Tomorrow be' should be 'tomorrow would be,' and 'she becomes' should be 'she become.'

52. In which sentence is the subjunctive mood used to express a demand?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If only she were here to help us.
  • B.The manager demands that the report be completed by Friday.
  • C.I wish I were taller.
  • D.Should you need assistance, please call me.

Explanation:

'The manager demands that the report be completed' uses the mandative subjunctive to express a demand. The others express a wish, another wish, and a conditional offer, respectively.

53. In American English, the subjunctive mood is used more frequently than in British English.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

American English does tend to preserve the subjunctive mood more consistently than British English, especially in formal writing.

54. In which sentence is the present subjunctive used correctly after a verb of demand?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The boss insisted that Mark stays late.
  • B.The boss insisted that Mark stayed late.
  • C.The boss insisted that Mark stay late.
  • D.The boss insisted that Mark is staying late.

Explanation:

The present subjunctive 'stay' (without 's') is correct after 'insisted that.' The others use indicative forms 'stays,' 'stayed,' and 'is staying.'

55. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.It is essential that the documents are signed today.
  • B.If she was here, she would help us solve this problem.
  • C.The doctor suggested that he take the medicine with food.
  • D.I wish it were possible to change the past.
  • E.Should you find the missing documents, please notify me immediately.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'he take' (present subjunctive), 'it were possible' (past subjunctive), and 'Should you find' (inverted subjunctive). The others should be 'the documents be signed' and 'If she were here.'

56. Which sentence contains an example of the optative subjunctive?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The manager requested that she be more punctual.
  • B.If he were more careful, this wouldn't happen.
  • C.God bless America!
  • D.Should you need help, please ask.

Explanation:

'God bless America!' uses the optative subjunctive, which expresses a wish or desire. The others use the mandative subjunctive, the past subjunctive, and the conditional subjunctive, respectively.

57. In the sentence 'Come what may, we will persevere,' the phrase 'come what may' uses the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Come what may' is a fixed expression using the subjunctive mood. It means 'whatever may come' or 'no matter what happens.'

58. Which of the following is a common trigger for the formulaic subjunctive? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Be that as it may
  • B.So be it
  • C.Far be it from me
  • D.I think that
  • E.So I heard

Explanation:

'Be that as it may,' 'So be it,' and 'Far be it from me' are all fixed expressions that use the formulaic subjunctive. 'I think that' and 'So I heard' do not trigger the subjunctive.

59. In which sentence is the present subjunctive correctly used in a formal command?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The teacher suggested that the student reads more books.
  • B.The teacher suggested that the student read more books.
  • C.The teacher suggested that the student would read more books.
  • D.The teacher suggested that the student is reading more books.

Explanation:

The present subjunctive 'read' (without 's') is correct after 'suggested that.' The others use indicative or conditional forms.

60. Which of these expressions require the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.It is crucial that
  • B.I wish that
  • C.I think that
  • D.I demand that
  • E.I know that

Explanation:

'It is crucial that,' 'I wish that,' and 'I demand that' require the subjunctive mood because they express necessity, desire, or demand. 'I think that' and 'I know that' express certainty or belief and use the indicative mood.

61. In the sentence 'If I were rich, I would travel the world,' what would be the indicative form of 'were'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.am
  • B.was
  • C.are
  • D.be

Explanation:

The indicative form of 'were' in this context would be 'was,' as in 'If I was rich' (though this would be considered incorrect in formal English).

62. The subjunctive mood is commonly used in legal language.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is indeed commonly used in legal language, especially in phrases like 'be it enacted,' 'be it resolved,' and in statements of conditions or requirements.

63. Which sentence correctly uses the subjunctive mood after 'as if'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.He acts as if he is the boss.
  • B.He acts as if he was the boss.
  • C.He acts as if he were the boss.
  • D.He acts as if he has been the boss.

Explanation:

After 'as if' in contrary-to-fact situations, the past subjunctive 'were' is correct. The others use indicative forms 'is,' 'was,' and 'has been.'

64. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Whether he be rich or poor, I will always love him.
  • B.She speaks to me as though I am a child.
  • C.I suggested that she goes to the doctor.
  • D.Long live the queen!
  • E.It is vital that she arrive on time.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'he be rich or poor' (formulaic subjunctive), 'Long live the queen!' (optative subjunctive), and 'she arrive' (mandative subjunctive). The others should be 'as though I were a child' and 'she go to the doctor.'

65. In which sentence is the past perfect subjunctive correctly used?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I would have known, I would have helped.
  • B.If I knew, I would have helped.
  • C.If I had known, I would have helped.
  • D.If I have known, I would have helped.

Explanation:

The past perfect subjunctive 'had known' is correctly used to express a past contrary-to-fact condition. 'Would have known' is a common error, and 'knew' and 'have known' are incorrect tenses for this context.

66. The sentence 'Far be it from me to criticize' uses the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Far be it from me' is a fixed expression using the subjunctive mood. In the indicative, it would be 'Far is it from me.'

67. Which of the following uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a negative command?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The judge ruled that the defendant does not leave the country.
  • B.The judge ruled that the defendant did not leave the country.
  • C.The judge ruled that the defendant not leave the country.
  • D.The judge ruled that the defendant will not leave the country.

Explanation:

The negative subjunctive 'not leave' (without 'do' or 'does') is correct after 'ruled that.' The others use indicative forms 'does not leave,' 'did not leave,' and 'will not leave.'

68. Which phrases typically trigger the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.I recommend that
  • B.I think that
  • C.It is essential that
  • D.I know that
  • E.I demand that

Explanation:

'I recommend that,' 'It is essential that,' and 'I demand that' trigger the subjunctive because they express recommendations, necessity, or demands. 'I think that' and 'I know that' express certainty or belief and use the indicative.

69. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a 'that' clause?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I suggest that he studies harder.
  • B.I suggest that he study harder.
  • C.I suggest that he studied harder.
  • D.I suggest that he will study harder.

Explanation:

The present subjunctive 'study' (without 's') is correct after 'suggest that.' The others use indicative forms 'studies,' 'studied,' and 'will study.'

70. The formal expression 'be it known' uses the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Be it known' is a formal expression using the subjunctive mood. In the indicative, it would be 'It is known.'

71. Which sentence contains an inverted subjunctive construction with 'had'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If I had more time, I would help you.
  • B.Had I more time, I would help you.
  • C.I wish I had more time to help you.
  • D.If only I had more time to help you.

Explanation:

'Had I more time' is an inverted subjunctive construction, where 'had' comes before the subject instead of using 'if.' This is a more formal or literary construction.

72. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.The university requires that each student takes four core courses.
  • B.Should you change your mind, please let me know.
  • C.I wish I was taller.
  • D.The committee recommended that the proposal be accepted.
  • E.If I were you, I would accept the offer.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'Should you change' (inverted subjunctive), 'the proposal be accepted' (present subjunctive), and 'If I were you' (past subjunctive). The others should be 'each student take' and 'I wish I were taller.'

73. In which sentence is the subjunctive mood used correctly after 'lest'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.He spoke quietly lest he wakes the baby.
  • B.He spoke quietly lest he wake the baby.
  • C.He spoke quietly lest he will wake the baby.
  • D.He spoke quietly lest he would wake the baby.

Explanation:

After 'lest,' the present subjunctive 'wake' (without 's') is correct. The others use indicative or conditional forms 'wakes,' 'will wake,' and 'would wake.'

74. In American English, after verbs of suggestion and demand, the _____ is used.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.indicative mood
  • B.subjunctive mood
  • C.imperative mood
  • D.conditional mood

Explanation:

In American English, the subjunctive mood is typically used after verbs of suggestion and demand, as in 'I suggest that he leave' and 'She demands that it be done.'

75. The subjunctive mood is never used in negative constructions.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive can indeed be used in negative constructions, as in 'I insisted that he not go' or 'It is important that she not be late.'

76. Which of the following use the subjunctive mood correctly? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.He acted as if he were the CEO.
  • B.Whether it be rain or shine, the event will continue.
  • C.I insisted that he comes to the meeting.
  • D.It is crucial that every student brings their textbook.
  • E.If she were to arrive early, we could start sooner.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'as if he were' (past subjunctive), 'Whether it be' (formulaic subjunctive), and 'If she were to arrive' (hypothetical subjunctive). The others should be 'he come' and 'every student bring.'

77. In the sentence 'Heaven forbid that should happen,' the words 'heaven forbid' introduce the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Heaven forbid' is an expression that introduces the subjunctive mood, expressing a wish that something not happen.

78. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a condition contrary to fact?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If he was honest, he would tell the truth.
  • B.If he is honest, he will tell the truth.
  • C.If he were honest, he would tell the truth.
  • D.If he had been honest, he would tell the truth.

Explanation:

The past subjunctive 'were' is correct in a present contrary-to-fact condition. 'If he is honest' expresses a real possibility, not a contrary-to-fact condition.

79. Which of the following expressions typically use the base form of the verb in the subjunctive? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.I insist that he...
  • B.It is important that she...
  • C.I know that they...
  • D.The manager requested that we...
  • E.I believe that he...

Explanation:

'I insist that,' 'It is important that,' and 'The manager requested that' all require the base form of the verb in the subjunctive. 'I know that' and 'I believe that' use the indicative mood.

80. Which sentence correctly uses the subjunctive in a contrary-to-fact conditional?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.Had he studied harder, he would have passed the exam.
  • B.If he would have studied harder, he would have passed the exam.
  • C.If he has studied harder, he would have passed the exam.
  • D.If he was studying harder, he would have passed the exam.

Explanation:

'Had he studied harder' correctly uses the inverted past perfect subjunctive in a past contrary-to-fact conditional. The others use incorrect formations.

81. Which sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.The board suggested that she accepts the position.
  • B.I wish that she stops complaining.
  • C.It is essential that each participant sign the waiver.
  • D.If she were more confident, she would perform better.
  • E.Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'each participant sign' (present subjunctive), 'If she were more confident' (past subjunctive), and 'Be it enacted' (formulaic subjunctive). The others should be 'she accept' and 'she stop.'

82. Which of the following correctly pairs a subjunctive trigger with the form of the verb that should follow it?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I suggest that he goes
  • B.I wish that he was
  • C.It is crucial that she be
  • D.I think that he come

Explanation:

'It is crucial that she be' correctly pairs a subjunctive trigger with the subjunctive form of the verb. The others should be 'he go,' 'he were,' and 'he comes' (indicative).

83. The subjunctive mood is used after 'though' and 'although' when expressing contrary-to-fact situations.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive is not typically used after 'though' and 'although' even in contrary-to-fact situations. It is used after 'as if' and 'as though' when expressing contrary-to-fact situations.

84. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a formal resolution?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.Be it resolved that the company is committing to carbon neutrality.
  • B.Be it resolved that the company be committed to carbon neutrality.
  • C.It is resolved that the company commits to carbon neutrality.
  • D.It is resolved that the company will commit to carbon neutrality.

Explanation:

The formulaic subjunctive 'Be it resolved' followed by the present subjunctive 'be committed' is the correct formal resolution structure.

85. Which of these adverbs can signal the use of the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Lest
  • B.If
  • C.When
  • D.Though
  • E.Whether

Explanation:

'Lest,' 'if' (in contrary-to-fact conditions), and 'whether' (in certain formal contexts) can signal the subjunctive mood. 'When' and 'though' typically use the indicative mood.

86. Which of the following is a correct definition of the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.A mood used only to express past events
  • B.A mood used to express facts and certainties
  • C.A mood used to express commands and requests
  • D.A mood used to express wishes, hypothetical situations, and demands

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is used to express wishes, hypothetical situations, and demands—not facts, certainties, or only past events. The imperative mood is used for commands and requests.

87. The subjunctive mood is declining in modern English usage.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is indeed declining in modern English usage, especially in casual speech and British English, though it remains important in formal writing and certain fixed expressions.

88. Which of the following sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.I wish I were a bird so I could fly.
  • B.The teacher demanded that the students are quiet.
  • C.If he comes tomorrow, I will give him the package.
  • D.It is imperative that he arrive on time.
  • E.Had I known about the party, I would have attended.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'I wish I were a bird' (past subjunctive), 'he arrive on time' (present subjunctive), and 'Had I known' (inverted past perfect subjunctive). 'The students be quiet' would be correct, and 'If he comes' is indicative because it expresses a real possibility.

89. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly with 'would rather'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I would rather that he comes with us.
  • B.I would rather that he came with us.
  • C.I would rather that he come with us.
  • D.I would rather that he would come with us.

Explanation:

After 'would rather that,' the present subjunctive 'come' (without 's') is correct. The others use indicative or conditional forms 'comes,' 'came,' and 'would come.'

90. The subjunctive mood is used primarily to express ________.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.facts and certainties
  • B.questions and inquiries
  • C.commands and requests
  • D.hypothetical situations, wishes, and demands

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is primarily used to express hypothetical situations, wishes, and demands—not facts, questions, or commands, which use the indicative, interrogative, and imperative moods, respectively.

91. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a 'that' clause?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The board recommends that she gets promoted.
  • B.The board recommends that she get promoted.
  • C.The board recommends that she got promoted.
  • D.The board recommends that she would get promoted.

Explanation:

After 'recommends that,' the present subjunctive 'get' (without 's') is correct. The others use indicative or conditional forms 'gets,' 'got,' and 'would get.'

92. The subjunctive mood is often confused with the conditional mood in English.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive and conditional moods are indeed often confused in English, particularly because they frequently appear together in if-then constructions, with the subjunctive in the 'if' clause and the conditional in the 'then' clause.

93. Which of the following verbs typically trigger the use of the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.Suggest
  • B.Know
  • C.Demand
  • D.Believe
  • E.Request

Explanation:

'Suggest,' 'demand,' and 'request' typically trigger the subjunctive mood because they express suggestions, demands, or requests. 'Know' and 'believe' express certainty or opinion and take the indicative mood.

94. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly with 'unless'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.Unless he is here by noon, we will start without him.
  • B.Unless he be here by noon, we will start without him.
  • C.Unless he were here by noon, we will start without him.
  • D.Unless he would be here by noon, we will start without him.

Explanation:

Unlike other conditions, 'unless' typically takes the indicative mood ('is here'), not the subjunctive, in modern English.

95. Which of the following sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.The judge ordered that the defendant stands trial.
  • B.If I was in your shoes, I would do the same thing.
  • C.So be it.
  • D.It is necessary that every student completes the assignment.
  • E.I demanded that he leave immediately.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'So be it' (formulaic subjunctive) and 'he leave immediately' (present subjunctive). The others should be 'the defendant stand trial,' 'If I were in your shoes,' and 'every student complete.'

96. In which sentence is the past perfect subjunctive used correctly?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.If only he had listened to me!
  • B.If only he listened to me!
  • C.If only he would have listened to me!
  • D.If only he was listening to me!

Explanation:

'If only he had listened to me!' correctly uses the past perfect subjunctive to express a regret about the past. The others use incorrect forms for this context.

97. The subjunctive mood is preserved more in written English than in spoken English.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is indeed preserved more in written English, especially formal writing, than in spoken English, where it is often replaced by indicative forms.

98. Which of the following best describes the difference between the indicative and subjunctive moods?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.Indicative describes past events, subjunctive describes future events.
  • B.Indicative expresses facts and realities, subjunctive expresses hypotheticals and non-realities.
  • C.Indicative is used in formal writing, subjunctive in casual speech.
  • D.Indicative is used with singular subjects, subjunctive with plural subjects.

Explanation:

The indicative mood expresses facts and realities, while the subjunctive mood expresses hypothetical situations, wishes, demands, and other non-realities.

99. Which of the following sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.I move that the meeting adjourns.
  • B.The doctor recommended that he take two pills daily.
  • C.It is important that she understands the consequences.
  • D.If she were to call, I would tell her the news.
  • E.Heaven help us!

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'he take two pills' (present subjunctive), 'If she were to call' (past subjunctive), and 'Heaven help us!' (optative subjunctive). The others should be 'the meeting adjourn' and 'she understand.'

100. Which phrase most commonly uses the subjunctive mood in modern English?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I know that...
  • B.I think that...
  • C.I suggest that...
  • D.I believe that...

Explanation:

'I suggest that...' most commonly uses the subjunctive mood because it expresses a suggestion or recommendation. The others typically use the indicative mood.

101. When a condition is contrary to fact in the present, we use the _____ tense of the subjunctive mood.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.present
  • B.past
  • C.future
  • D.past perfect

Explanation:

In conditions contrary to fact in the present, we use the past tense of the subjunctive mood, as in 'If I were rich' (not 'If I am rich').

102. Which of the following correctly identifies the subjunctive verb in 'The committee recommended that the proposal be accepted'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.committee
  • B.recommended
  • C.proposal
  • D.be

Explanation:

'Be' is the subjunctive verb in this sentence. After 'recommended that,' we use the base form of the verb 'to be,' which is 'be,' not 'is.'

103. The subjunctive mood is characterized by the use of _____ in conditions contrary to fact.

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.'was' for all persons
  • B.'were' for all persons
  • C.'would be' for all persons
  • D.'might be' for all persons

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is characterized by the use of 'were' for all persons in conditions contrary to fact, as in 'If I were,' 'If he were,' etc.

104. The expression 'If need be' contains a verb in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Be' in 'If need be' is indeed in the subjunctive mood. This is a fixed expression meaning 'if it is necessary.'

105. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly after 'it is important that'?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.It is important that everyone is on time.
  • B.It is important that everyone are on time.
  • C.It is important that everyone be on time.
  • D.It is important that everyone were on time.

Explanation:

After 'it is important that,' the present subjunctive 'be' is correct. The others use indicative forms 'is' and 'are,' or the past subjunctive 'were,' which is incorrect in this context.

106. In the sentence 'I wish I were on vacation,' the word 'were' is in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Were' is indeed in the subjunctive mood in this sentence. After 'wish,' we use the past subjunctive to express a contrary-to-fact situation in the present.

107. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the subjunctive mood in English?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.It often lacks distinct forms except with the verb 'to be'
  • B.It is used to express hypothetical situations
  • C.It is more common in formal writing than in casual speech
  • D.It requires the use of 'would' in the main clause

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood does not require the use of 'would' in the main clause. While 'would' often appears in the main clause of conditional sentences, it is part of the conditional mood, not the subjunctive.

108. Which sentence uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a wish?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.I wish I am taller.
  • B.I wish I was taller.
  • C.I wish I were taller.
  • D.I wish I would be taller.

Explanation:

In wishes about the present, we use the past subjunctive 'were,' not the indicative 'am' or 'was,' or the conditional 'would be.'

109. The subjunctive is regularly used in formal public notices and announcements.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive is indeed regularly used in formal public notices and announcements, such as 'Be it known,' 'Public notice is hereby given,' etc.

110. Which of the following sentences correctly use the subjunctive mood? Select all that apply.

CHECKBOXES
  • A.If I was the CEO, I would change the company policy.
  • B.The professor insisted that the student hands in the assignment on time.
  • C.Were you to accept our offer, we would be delighted.
  • D.It is essential that each applicant fills out the form correctly.
  • E.I move that the meeting be adjourned.

Explanation:

The subjunctive appears in 'Were you to accept' (inverted subjunctive) and 'the meeting be adjourned' (present subjunctive). The others should be 'If I were the CEO,' 'the student hand in,' and 'each applicant fill out.'

111. The subjunctive mood is often used in poetry and song lyrics.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

The subjunctive mood is indeed often used in poetry and song lyrics, particularly in expressions of wishes, hypothetical situations, and formal or archaic language.

112. Which of the following sentences contains a verb in the subjunctive mood?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.He goes to school every day.
  • B.She is working on her project.
  • C.If I were rich, I would buy a yacht.
  • D.They have completed their assignments.

Explanation:

'Were' in 'If I were rich' is in the subjunctive mood. The other sentences use verbs in the indicative mood.

113. In the sentence 'The teacher demands that the student submit the essay by Friday,' the word 'submit' is in the subjunctive mood.

TRUE FALSE
  • True
  • False

Explanation:

'Submit' is indeed in the subjunctive mood in this sentence. After 'demands that,' we use the base form of the verb without the 's' ending, even though 'the student' is third-person singular.

114. Which of the following uses the subjunctive mood correctly in a command?

MULTIPLE CHOICE
  • A.The judge ordered that the defendant appears in court.
  • B.The judge ordered that the defendant appear in court.
  • C.The judge ordered that the defendant appeared in court.
  • D.The judge ordered that the defendant would appear in court.

Explanation:

After 'ordered that,' the present subjunctive 'appear' (without 's') is correct. The others use indicative or conditional forms 'appears,' 'appeared,' and 'would appear.'