Subjunctive
The subjunctive is a verb form we use to talk about wishes, advice, demands, or unreal situations. It often uses the basic verb form, like in “I suggest he go.” With “be,” we often say “were,” as in “If I were you.” It is more common in formal English.
Subjunctive Past
C1The past subjunctive is used for imagined, unreal, or unlikely situations. It often comes after if and wish, for example, If I were you. With the verb be, we use were for every person. Even though it is called past, it usually talks about the present or the future.
Subjunctive Present
C1The present subjunctive is used to talk about wishes, requests, advice, or something necessary. It uses the basic verb form, without changes: “I suggest he go.” It often comes after “that”: “It is important that she be on time.” It is more common in formal English.