Present Subjunctive

The present subjunctive is a verb form used to express doubt, necessity, uncertainty, or desire. It is commonly used in dependent clauses introduced by certain conjunctions or expressions. In French, the present subjunctive is formed by using the base form of the verb with specific endings. Here's how to understand and use the present subjunctive effectively.

Formation of the Present Subjunctive

To form the present subjunctive, follow these steps:

1. Start with the base form of the verb (infinitive form).
2. Remove the ending of the verb: -er, -ir, or -re.
3. Add the appropriate endings based on the subject pronoun.

Here are the endings for regular verbs in the present subjunctive:

• -er verbs:

  • je: -e
  • tu: -es
  • il/elle/on: -e
  • nous: -ions
  • vous: -iez
  • ils/elles: -ent

• -ir verbs:

  • je: -e
  • tu: -es
  • il/elle/on: -e
  • nous: -ions
  • vous: -iez
  • ils/elles: -ent

• -re verbs:

  • je: -e
  • tu: -es
  • il/elle/on: -e
  • nous: -ions
  • vous: -iez
  • ils/elles: -ent

Remember that there are some irregular verbs that have different conjugation patterns in the present subjunctive. You will need to learn these verbs individually.

Using the Present Subjunctive

The present subjunctive is used in various situations, including:

1. Expressing doubt or uncertainty: When expressing doubt, uncertainty, or subjective opinions, the present subjunctive is often used. It indicates that the action is not certain or factual.

   Example: Je doute qu'il vienne demain. (I doubt he will come tomorrow.)

2. Expressing necessity or requirement: The present subjunctive can be used to express necessity, obligation, or requirement in a subordinate clause.

   Example: Il faut que tu fasses tes devoirs. (You must do your homework.)

3. After certain conjunctions and expressions: The present subjunctive is commonly used after conjunctions and expressions such as "que" (that), "bien que" (although), "pour que" (so that), and "afin que" (in order that).

   Example: Je suis contente que tu sois venu. (I'm glad that you came.)

4. Wishes, desires, and emotions: The present subjunctive can express wishes, desires, or emotions when used in certain phrases or expressions.

   Example: Je souhaite que tu réussisses dans tes projets. (I wish you success in your endeavors.)

Common Irregular Verbs in the Present Subjunctive

Here are some commonly used irregular verbs in the present subjunctive:

• Avoir (to have):

  • que j'aie
  • que tu aies
  • qu'il/elle/on ait
  • que nous ayons
  • que vous ayez
  • qu'ils/elles aient

• Être (to be):

  • que je sois
  • que tu sois
  • qu'il/elle/on soit
  • que nous soyons
  • que vous soyez
  • qu'ils/elles soient

• Aller (to go):

  • que j'aille
  • que tu ailles
  • qu'il/elle/on aille
  • que nous allions
  • que vous alliez
  • qu'ils/elles aillent

• Faire (to do/make):

  • que je fasse
  • que tu fasses
  • qu'il/elle/on fasse
  • que nous fassions
  • que vous fassiez
  • qu'ils/elles fassent

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are other irregular verbs that you will need to learn individually.

Recap

• The present subjunctive expresses doubt, necessity, uncertainty, or desire.
• Regular verbs in the present subjunctive follow a specific pattern of endings based on the subject pronoun.
• The present subjunctive is used after certain conjunctions, expressions, or in situations when doubt or necessity is expressed.
• There are some common irregular verbs in the present subjunctive, and they need to be learned individually.

Understanding the present subjunctive is essential for expressing doubt, necessity, or uncertainty in French. Practice using it with various verbs and expressions to become more comfortable with this form. Keep in mind that regular practice and exposure to the language will help you master the present subjunctive more effectively.