Present
Subjunctive
is a
formal expression
used to express a
circumstance
which
is desired.
It is usually marked with the words: ask, demand, determine, insist,
order, recommend, request, require, or
suggest;
followed by (that)+infinitive.
Example:
- The President demands that everyone own an ID card
- It is required that you be there before 6 pm.
Pay
attention to those sentences. Infinitive verbs are used regardless of
the subject pronouns.
The Present Subjunctive is
used mostly in formal speech and writing, more often in American
English than in British English.
In
British English, the insertion of “should”
is used.
- The President demands that everyone should own an ID card.
- It is required that you should be there before 6 pm.
Present subjunctive also occurs after
adjectives such as IMPORTANT, ESSENTIAL, VITAL etc.
- It is vital that everybody wear a mask.
- It is desirable that the cars be parked outside.
- It is important that he be here when the officers come.
- It is essential that she send the documents today.
- It is imperative that products be packed properly.
