modo subjuntivo
/ˌmodo subxunˈtibo/masculine
The English phrase 'subjunctive mood' is translated into Spanish as modo subjuntivo. If unsure, use modo subjuntivo. Wiktionary also lists subjuntivo.
Meaning: subjunctive mood (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| modo subjuntivo | /ˌmodo subxunˈtibo/ | masculine |
| subjuntivo | /subxunˈtibo/ | masculine |
The modo subjuntivo is used to express things such as desire, doubt, emotion or impersonality. It is triggered by certain phrases rather than certainties, such as espero que (I hope that), quiero que (I want that) or es importante que (it's important that).
Which one should you use?
The modo subjuntivo is contrasted with the modo indicativo (indicative mood), which is used for factual statements. In casual conversation, the word modo is often omitted and speakers simply refer to the mood as el subjuntivo.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌmodo subxunˈtibo/
Did you know?
- The word subjuntivo is a direct relative of the English word 'junction'. Both come from the Latin root iungō, meaning 'to join' or 'to bind'.
- In many Spanish-speaking regions, the subjuntivo is the key to expressing 'empathy' or 'social politeness' when making requests to strangers.
- While English has largely abandoned the subjunctive in daily speech, Spanish maintains it as a fundamental part of the language. A native speaker uses el subjuntivo hundreds of times a day without thinking.
Examples in context
- En el modo subjuntivo, expresamos nuestras dudas y deseos.In the subjunctive mood, we express our doubts and desires.
- Espero que estudies para el examen.I hope you study for the exam.
- Quiero que salgas temprano.I want you to leave early.
- No creo que lleguen a tiempo.I don't believe they will arrive on time.
- Dudo que ella lo sepa.I doubt she knows it.
- Me alegra que hayas tenido éxito.I am glad that you have been successful.
- Es triste que no puedas venir.It's sad that you can't come.
- El modo subjuntivo es muy importante en español.The subjunctive mood is very important in Spanish.
- No entiendo bien las reglas del modo subjuntivo.I don't understand the rules of the subjunctive mood well.
- Mi profesora explica el modo subjuntivo con claridad.My teacher explains the subjunctive mood clearly.
Example conversation
Two students are studying together in a library.
- Elena¿Estás estudiando el modo subjuntivo para el examen?Are you studying the subjunctive mood for the exam?
- AlejandroSí, pero el modo subjuntivo me resulta difícil.Yes, but the subjunctive mood is difficult for me.
- ElenaYo puedo ayudarte con tus ejercicios, Alejandro.I can help you with your exercises, Alejandro.
- AlejandroGracias, Elena, eres muy amable.Thanks, Elena, you are very kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “subjunctive mood” translations and entries modo subjuntivo, subjuntivo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries modo, subjuntivo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
