How to Avoid Using the Subjunctive in French

The French subjunctive can be a challenging aspect of the language for many learners. While it's an important part of French grammar, there are several ways to express similar ideas without using this complex mood.

Let's explore some practical techniques to avoid the subjunctive while still communicating effectively in French.

Replace 'que' with a Preposition

One simple way to avoid the subjunctive is by replacing 'que' with a preposition and changing the conjugated verb to an infinitive. This works well with impersonal expressions.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "Il est important que tu sois à l'heure."
• Without subjunctive: "Il est important d'être à l'heure."

Both mean "It's important to be on time," but the second version uses the infinitive, avoiding the subjunctive.

Use Infinitives with Impersonal Verbs

For impersonal verbs, you can often drop 'que' and use the infinitive instead of the subjunctive.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "Il faut que tu sois là."
• Without subjunctive: "Il faut être là."

Both express the necessity of being somewhere, but the second version is simpler.

Modify Conjunctions

Many conjunctions that typically require the subjunctive can be restructured using 'de' followed by an infinitive. This works when the subject remains the same or when speaking generally.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "On doit travailler avant que l'on ne puisse prendre sa retraite."
• Without subjunctive: "On doit travailler avant de pouvoir prendre sa retraite."

Both mean "You need to work before you can retire," but the second version avoids the subjunctive.

Replace 'que' with 'si' for Expressing Doubt

When the subjunctive expresses doubt, you can often replace 'que' with 'si'.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "Je ne suis pas sûr qu'il soit là."
• Without subjunctive: "Je ne suis pas sûr s'il est là."

Both mean "I'm not sure if he's there," but the second version uses the indicative mood.

Eliminate a Subject

In sentences with two subjects, you might be able to remove one and use an infinitive to avoid the subjunctive.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "Il aide pour que tu sois content."
• Without subjunctive: "Il aide pour te rendre content."

Both mean "He's helping to make you happy," but the second version is more concise.

Use Adverbs

Sometimes, you can replace the entire subjunctive structure with an adverb.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "Il est possible que je vienne."
• Without subjunctive: "Je viendrai, peut-être."

Both express the possibility of coming, but the second version uses the simple future tense with an adverb.

Change Negative to Affirmative

For structures that require the subjunctive only when used negatively, you can avoid it by swapping the negative and affirmative.

Example:

• With subjunctive: "Je ne crois pas qu'il soit là."
• Without subjunctive: "Je crois qu'il n'est pas là."

Both express doubt about someone's presence, but the second version uses the indicative mood.

Conclusion

These techniques offer ways to simplify your French while maintaining clear communication.

Remember, the subjunctive is still an important part of French, but these alternatives can help you express yourself more easily when needed.