Master French Subjunctive Conjugations: A Simple Guide

Updated on 2024-08-28

The French subjunctive mood can be tricky, but conjugating subjunctive verbs is surprisingly straightforward.

Let's break it down into simple steps and examples to help you master this essential aspect of French grammar.

The Basic Pattern for Subjunctive Conjugations

Most French verbs, including regular -er, -ir, and -re verbs, follow a consistent pattern for subjunctive conjugations:

Start with the present tense "ils" form of the verb
Remove the -ent ending to find the subjunctive stem
Add the appropriate subjunctive ending

Subjunctive Endings

que je/j' -e
que tu -es
qu'il/elle/on -e
que nous -ions
que vous -iez
qu'ils/elles -ent

Examples of Subjunctive Conjugations

Let's apply this pattern to some common verbs:

Aimer (to like/love)

ils aiment → aim-
que j'aime
que tu aimes
qu'il/elle aime
que nous aimions
que vous aimiez
qu'ils/elles aiment

Finir (to finish)

ils finissent → finiss-
que je finisse
que tu finisses
qu'il/elle finisse
que nous finissions
que vous finissiez
qu'ils/elles finissent

Vendre (to sell)

ils vendent → vend-
que je vende
que tu vendes
qu'il/elle vende
que nous vendions
que vous vendiez
qu'ils/elles vendent

Irregular Verbs in the Subjunctive

Many irregular verbs follow the standard subjunctive pattern:

Partir (to leave)

ils partent → part-
que je parte
que tu partes
qu'il/elle parte
que nous partions
que vous partiez
qu'ils/elles partent

Couvrir (to cover)

ils couvrent → couvr-
que je couvre
que tu couvres
qu'il/elle couvre
que nous couvrions
que vous couvriez
qu'ils/elles couvrent

Mettre (to put)

ils mettent → mett-
que je mette
que tu mettes
qu'il/elle mette
que nous mettions
que vous mettiez
qu'ils/elles mettent

Helpful Tips for Subjunctive Conjugations

Practice with -er verbs first, as their singular and third person plural forms are identical in the indicative and subjunctive moods.
Focus on learning the "nous" and "vous" forms, as they often differ from the indicative.
Some highly irregular verbs have unique subjunctive conjugations. Memorize these separately.
Use mnemonic devices or songs to remember the subjunctive endings.
Practice regularly with varied exercises to reinforce your understanding.

Conclusion

Mastering French subjunctive conjugations takes practice, but the consistent patterns make it easier than you might think.

Keep these rules and examples in mind as you continue your French language journey.

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