Subjunctive Mood

Use base form after demands and suggestions.

Examples

• I suggest that he leave.
• If I were you...

Key rules

• Use base form after verbs of demand in formal English: suggest, insist, recommend that he go
• Use were for unreal situations: if I were
• Fixed phrases: God save the Queen, so be it
• No -s for third person in the subjunctive

Common mistakes

• I suggest that he goes → I suggest that he go
• It is vital that she is on time → It is vital that she be on time