So far, we have learned verbs can be either finite (tensed) or non-finite.
Finite verbs can be marked for:
tense (present vs. past)
aspect (simple, progressive, perfect, and perfect progressive)
voice (active vs. passive)
Non-finite verbs do not have tenses, but they can still be marked for:
aspect (simple, progressive, perfect, and perfect progressive)
voice (active vs. passive)
The last grammatical feature of VPs concerns moods, which indicate speaker's/writer's attitude. There are five moods in English. Let's watch the video to learn what they are.
Five moods of VPs in English:
Indicative mood indicates a state of fact or an opinion. Most sentences in English are written in the indicative mood.
e.g., We walk every day before dinner.
2. Imperative mood shows a command. It means that something must be done. In most imperative sentences, the subject (you) is not present (omitted) but is understood.
e.g., Sit down. Shake hands. Roll.
3. Interrogative mood asks a question just like a police officer 'interrogates' his suspect.
e.g., Who are you? Where are you from? What are you doing here?
4. Conditional mood depends on conditions. There have to be certain conditions for it to happen.
If what she said is true, then we have to hurry up.
If you study hard, you are likely to get an A.
5. Subjunctive mood expresses a wish or a way to explore uncertain or imaginary situations.
1) Statements contrary to the fact
If he were here, we could play tennis. (contrary to the present situation)
If I were you, I would not color my hair so often. (In the subjunctive, were is used for all persons.) (contrary to the present situation)
If I had known the fact/Had I known the fact then, I could have made a much better decision.(contrary to a past situation)
If you had told me about your concern earlier, I should have been able to help you. (contrary to a past situation)
2) wishes
I wish I were a bird.
If you were her boyfriend, what would you do?
3) conveying the contents of a command
It is decreed that we be vigilant in observing the rules.
The chairman ordered that a committee be formed.
4) formal motions and resolutions
Be it resolved that we begin construction immediately.
Application in Writing: Keeping mood consistent in a sentence
Original version: Read the instructions carefully and you must assemble the equipment completely before beginning the procedure.