What is the subjunctive tense?

Firstly, the subjunctive is not a tense, it is actually a mood. The subjunctive is known as a mood because it is used to express the sense that the speaker employs an attitude or feelings towards a fact or idea, typically carrying a hint of uncertainty or hesitancy. The subjunctive may express a wish, hope or fear and typically requires two speakers, for example “Je veux que tu fasses tes devoirs”. When deciding between using the indicative (standard verb form) or the subjunctive, you should examine how many speakers there are in the sentence, whether the sentence or clause begins with an expression that triggers the subjunctive and whether the clause or sentence before the verb ends with a relative pronoun (qui or que). To learn more about the subjunctive and other French grammar points, please do not hesitate to contact me. I run structured lessons detailing grammar that is used within both A level French and the real French speaking world, helping you to incorporate these into your work by using real life examples. I am a firm believer in employing authentic materials to help with your language learning, rather than just explaining the grammar as a point. 

Answered by Schaunagh G. French tutor

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Translate: Il fallait que je crée moi-même quelques chansons pour qu’un agent sache que je comprenais quelque chose à la musique. Ce que ma mère m’avait dit m’apparaissait comme évident, même si je n’y avais jamais pensé de façon aussi précise.


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