You probably already know that verbs can take different forms depending on whether we are writing in the past, present, or future tense. However, in addition to changes that indicate differences in time (tense), there are also different forms a verb can take to indicate mood. Whether you have ever thought about it or not, you probably use the three moods of English nearly every day.

Many of our conversations occur using the indicative mood. In this mood we are simply "indicating" how things are, or stating facts (It is raining.). We use the imperative mood to express a command or request (Have a good time at the fair.). The third mood of English statements, the Subjunctive Mood may be the one least often used, but is also most often abused. We use it for "if" statements, sentences that express a condition or a wish (If he were president of the college, no one would pay tuition. I wish I were president.). Each of the sentences below uses the subjunctive mood incorrectly.

1. If I was you, I'd try harder next time.

2. I wish I was a better student of history.

3. If it was up to him, no one would receive a passing grade.

When we speak or write in the subjunctive mood, we use a special form of the verb "be." These special forms occur only when we use "be" in the subjunctive mood with a first person noun (I) or a third person singular noun (he, she, it). If that sounds confusing, some examples should make it clearer.

It's fine to say "I was happy." In the. past tense, "was" goes with "I." But when we state a condition (using "if") or a wish, we use "were" with "I."

• If I were you, I'd try harder next time. I wish I were a better student of history.

By the same token, it's alright to say "It was up to him," in a simple past tense statement. But when we want to state a condition using "he," "she," or "it," we must be sure the verb "be" is in the subjunctive mood - were.

• If it were up to him, no one would receive a passing grade.
  
• She wishes she were taller.
  
• If she were taller, she'd never think of wearing high-heeled shoes.

© EICCD | 306 West River Drive Davenport, IA 52801 | For Information call: 1-800-462-3255
eiccinfo@eicc.edu