The subjunctive is used in several ways, includig in conditional if-clauses and for expressin wishes. The present subjunctive could be used for requests and suggestions. The structure is easy since it uses only the basic infinitive form of the verb (feel, drive, etc.). That is, the verb does not change to show the subject´s person or number (including the third-person singular)
The present subjunctive is generally used in clauses that begin with that, usually after one of the following verbs:
- ask
- decide
- demand
- insist
- intend
- order
- propose
- recommend
- request
- require
- suggest
It is used even when the request or suggestion occurred in the past.
She asked that he drive (not drives) more carefully.
He insisted that the work be (not is) finished on time.
We recommend that you be (not are) prepared for the interview.
The government has requested that he send (not sends) more documents.
They are suggesting that she teach (not teaches) algebra.
Negative requests or suggetions are expressed by using not before the verb:
We recommend that you not be late for the interview.
They are suggesting that she not teach algebra this semester.
These kinds of requests and suggestions can also be formed with should and the infinitive.
He insisted that the work should be finished on time
The government has requested that he sould send more documents.
They are suggesting that she should teach algebra.
The subjunctive is also used in a few common expressions that never change. In teh following sentences, several of these are shown in italics. (All these phrases can be found in a dictionary).
It would be his last work -his swan song, as it were. [= if I may express it in that way]
Far be it from me [= it would be inappropriate for me] to tell you how to raise your children.
It will probably be expensive, but be that as it may [= regardless of that], we’ll all support it.
So be it [= I accept the situation] – I won´t object any further.
Come what may [=regardless of what happens], we´re determined to complete the entire journey.
Suffice it to say [=all that I need to and am willing to say is] that the show was a disaster.
God bless you! [=I hope that God will bless you]
Heaven forbid! [=I hope that heaven (God) prevents that]
Heaven help us! [=I hope that heaven (God) will help us]