Subjunctive Mood

By Abhishek Tomar on Aug 20, 2009 with Comments 0

In English, we do not have Subjunctive mood. But many sentence are written in this mood, hence has to be prepared for the GMAT examination. Subjunctive is used to express facts or imperative mood, used to express commands. You can also use Subjunctive mood in two types in the sentences in GMAT:

1. IF clause, where the IF clause expresses a condition contrary to reality.
2. Hopes, proposals, desires and request formed with the word THAT

IF I WAS A VERY RICH WOMAN….

Mainly GMAT uses Subjunctive mood in cases of uncertainty and unreality. Mainly when we use IF we are in some kind of uncertainity and may be in condition of false. Now look some of the examples to clear the Subjunctive Mood

Incorrect: IF I WAS rich, I will buy this school and donate it to the principal.
Correct : IF I WEE rich,  I will buy this school and donate it to the principal.

Incorrect : IF I WAS tall, I would have been a basket ball player.
Correct : IF I WERE tall, I would have been a basket ball player.

Remember : In Subjunctive mood the verb TO BE always appear to be WERE regardless of the subject. It never appear WAS