How to use French subjunctive

The French subjunctive is a verbal mood used to express doubt, desire, or uncertainty. It's often challenging for English speakers, as it doesn't have a direct equivalent in English.

When to Use the Subjunctive

The subjunctive is typically used in dependent clauses after certain expressions or conjunctions that indicate:

• Doubt or uncertainty
• Wishes or desires
• Emotions or feelings
• Necessity or obligation

Common Triggers

Some common phrases that trigger the subjunctive include:

• Il faut que (it's necessary that)
• Je veux que (I want that)
• Je souhaite que (I wish that)
• Bien que (although)
• Avant que (before)

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the use of subjunctive:

1. Je veux que tu viennes. (I want you to come.)
2. Il faut que nous partions maintenant. (We must leave now.)
3. Bien qu'il soit riche, il vit simplement. (Although he is rich, he lives simply.)

Formation

To form the subjunctive, use the third-person plural form of the present tense, remove the -ent ending, and add the appropriate subjunctive endings: -e, -es, -e, -ions, -iez, -ent.

Remember, practice is key to mastering the subjunctive. Try to spot it in French texts and use it in your own sentences to become more comfortable with this important aspect of French grammar.