The Formal Subjunctive

It is essential that every applicant submit the form by Friday.

Notice

  • It is essential that every applicant submit the form by Friday.
  • The committee recommended that the policy be reviewed.
  • I suggest that he see a doctor as soon as possible.
  • It is important that she be informed immediately.

Rule

In formal English (especially after words like essential, important, vital, suggest, recommend, insist, demand), the subjunctive uses the base form of the verb regardless of subject — no -s for third person, and ‘be’ instead of ‘is/are’. Structure: that + subject + base verb.

Practice

  1. Complete: ‘It is vital that he _____ (be) on time.’
    Answer: be
  2. Complete: ‘The board demands that the report _____ (submit) by Monday.’
    Answer: be submitted
  3. Rewrite formally: ‘I think it’s important she comes to the meeting.’
    Answer: It is important that she come to the meeting.
  4. Correct the error: ‘It is essential that he attends every session.’
    Answer: It is essential that he attend every session.

Connect

Practise spotting subjunctive errors in formal English.

Try Error Correction →

CEFR: Writing — select a style appropriate to formal, official, or academic readers.

Azizul Hakim
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