Subjunctive Exercises

We use the subjunctive after certain verbs and expressions to talk about suggestions, requirements, and urgent matters. The verb always takes the base form (infinitive without to).

Verbs and expressions followed by the subjunctive:

advise (that)…
ask (that)…
demand (that)…
insist (that)…
propose (that)…
recommend (that)…
request (that)…
suggest (that)…
urge (that)…
It is crucial (that)…
it is essential (that)…
It is important (that)…

Examples
My supervisor suggested (that) we have fewer meetings.
Our teacher recommends (that) we speak in English every day.
It is important (that) we be on time.
It is important (that) we not be late.  (negative form = not + base form)
Mark insisted (that) Kelly be considered for the position.  (passive voice)

Note that:

• The verb is in the base form for all subjects.

• The verb is in the base form even if the first verb is in the past.
  He suggested that I go to the event.

• The word that is optional.
  He insisted that I be there.
  He insisted I be there.

• The verbs above can be used with other structures as well.
  He suggested that I take an English course. (subject of sentence changes = subjunctive)
  He suggested taking an English course. (subject of sentence doesn’t change, suggest + gerund)
  He recommended that I take an English course. (subject of sentence changes = subjunctive)
  He recommended taking an English course.  (subject of sentence doesn’t change, recommend + gerund)
  He asked that we inform him of any new developments. (subjunctive)
  He asked us to inform him of any new developments. (ask + indirect object + infinitive)
  (Using two verbs together can be tricky. See this guide for more information.)

 

Subjunctive Exercise 1

All of the examples below require the subjunctive form. Choose the correct answer.

 

Subjunctive Exercise 2

Some of the examples below require the subjunctive form. Choose the correct answer. Note that not all of the correct answers will be in the subjunctive.