Expressing the Uncertain and the Hypothetical

More advanced grammar, like the subjunctive and conditional moods, lets you express doubt, wishes, or hypothetical situations.

The Subjunctive Mood

Used after certain expressions like 'il faut que', 'bien que', and when expressing emotions or doubt:

• 'Il faut que tu viennes.' (You must come.)

The Conditional Mood

Used for polite requests or hypothetical outcomes:

• 'Je voudrais un café.' (I would like a coffee.)
• 'Si j’étais riche, je voyagerais.' (If I were rich, I would travel.)

Key Rules

• Subjunctive is often triggered by 'que' after expressions of necessity or emotion.
• Conditional endings are added to the infinitive form of the verb.

Improving Your Skills

Practice by writing sentences using both moods and identifying them in reading passages.