Command
The Simple Present Subjunctive was once more extensively used than it is today. In modern American English, the Simple Present Subjunctive is still used in clauses beginning with the word that which express formal commands or requests. In the following examples, the word that is printed in bold type, and the verbs in the Simple Present Subjunctive are underlined.
Example :
They requested that she arrive early.
It is important that they be present at the meeting.
The demand that he provide identification will create a delay.
The main clauses of the preceding examples are they requested, it is important and the demand will create a delay. In the first example, the verb requested is in the Simple Past; in the second example, the verb is is in the Simple Present; and in the third example, the verb will create is in the Simple Future.
As illustrated in these examples, the use of the Simple Present Subjunctive in the subordinate clause of a formal command or request is independent of the tense of the verb in the main clause.
The Simple Present Subjunctive is more commonly used in formal English than in informal English. For instance, the sentence "He advises that you not be late," is an example of formal English. In informal English, the same idea would probably be expressed by the sentence "He advises you not to be late," in which the infinitive is used, rather than a clause requiring the Simple Present Subjunctive.
It is important that they be present at the meeting.
The demand that he provide identification will create a delay.
The main clauses of the preceding examples are they requested, it is important and the demand will create a delay. In the first example, the verb requested is in the Simple Past; in the second example, the verb is is in the Simple Present; and in the third example, the verb will create is in the Simple Future.
As illustrated in these examples, the use of the Simple Present Subjunctive in the subordinate clause of a formal command or request is independent of the tense of the verb in the main clause.
The Simple Present Subjunctive is more commonly used in formal English than in informal English. For instance, the sentence "He advises that you not be late," is an example of formal English. In informal English, the same idea would probably be expressed by the sentence "He advises you not to be late," in which the infinitive is used, rather than a clause requiring the Simple Present Subjunctive.
Wish or a regret
Use of I wish / if only:
There are three distinct types of I wish / if only sentences:
- Wish, wanting change for the present or future with the simple past.
- Regret with the past perfect.
- Complaints with would + verb.
Expressing a wish:
Form:
If only / I wish + simple past
Example:
If only I knew how to use a computer. (I don’t know how to use a computer and I would like to learn how to use it)
Use:
· To express a wish in the present or in the future.
· The simple past here is an unreal past.
· When you use the verb to be the form is “were”.
Example:
I wish I were a millionaire!
Example:
I wish I were a millionaire!
Expressing regret:
Form:
If only / I wish + past perfect
Example:
If only I had woken up early. (I didn’t wake up early and I missed my bus.)
Use:
· To express a regret.
· The action is past.
Complaining:
Form:
I wish / if only + would + verb
Example:
I wish you wouldn't arrive so late all the time (I'm annoyed because you always come late and I want you to arrive on time)
Use:
· To complain about a behaviour that you disapprove.
· Expressing impatience, annoyance or dissatisfaction with a present action.
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