Chapter 2.7: Intermediate Spanish Grammar: Use of the Subjunctive and Indicative
The subjunctive and indicative are two essential verb moods in the Spanish language. They are used to express different states of reality. The indicative is used to express facts, truths and certainties, while the subjunctive is used to express doubts, possibilities, needs, emotions, recommendations, and actions that have not yet taken place. Mastering the use of these two verb modes is an important step towards achieving fluency in intermediate Spanish.
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The indicative is the most common verb mood and is used to express actions that are seen as right, real, or factual. It is generally used in factual assertions and denials. For example:
- I estudio español. (I study Spanish.)
- Ellos trabajan en la tienda. (They work at the store.)
Subjunctive
The subjunctive is a verb mood that is used to express various conditions of uncertainty, such as doubt, possibility, necessity, or action that has not yet taken place. The subjunctive is normally introduced by a change of subject and a que (that). For example:
- I hope you study spanish. (I hope you study Spanish.)
- It is necessary that they work in the shop. (It is necessary that they work in the store.)
Use of Indicative and Subjunctive in Adjective Clauses
Adjective clauses, which describe a noun, can also use either the indicative or the subjunctive. The indicative is used when the referred noun is specific or definite, while the subjunctive is used when the referred noun is undefined or non-existent. For example:
- Listen to the audio with the screen off.
- Earn a certificate upon completion.
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- I'm looking for the book that has the blue cover. (I'm looking for the book with the blue cover.)
- I'm looking for a book that has the blue cover. (I'm looking for a book that has a blue cover.)
Use of the Indicative and Subjunctive in Adverbial Clauses
Adverbial clauses, which function like adverbs, can also use either the indicative or the subjunctive. If the action of the main clause is certain or factual, the indicative is used. If the action of the main clause is uncertain or hypothetical, the subjunctive is used. For example:
- I go to the store because I need buy milk. (I go to the store because I need to buy milk.)
- Iría a la tienda si tuviera money. (I would go to the store if I had the money.)
In summary, the use of the subjunctive and indicative in Spanish grammar is a matter of perception of reality. The indicative is used to express reality as it is, while the subjunctive is used to express reality as something other than what it is. Mastering the use of these two verb modes is essential for expressing a wide range of thoughts and feelings in Spanish.
This chapter is just an introduction to using the subjunctive and indicative. To fully master these concepts takes a lot of study and practice. However, with patience and dedication, you can achieve fluency in intermediate Spanish.
