5.2.3 VP: Mood

So far, we have learned verbs can be either finite (tensed) or non-finite.

Five moods of VPs in English:

1. 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.