Verb moods 1

Verbs, like people, have moods—three, in fact: indicative, imperative and subjunctive. And like people’s moods, verb moods reveal attitudes: specifically, the writer’s or speaker’s attitude about what is being said.

Is the writer or speaker stating a fact or opinion, or asking a question (indicative)? Giving a command or a direction (imperative)? Expressing a suggestion, requirement or desire, or stating an imaginary or hypothetical condition (subjunctive)? The verb moods will tell you.

If you think you are up to the challenge, try to identify the mood of the verbs in square brackets in the following sentences.

1. Victor [enjoys] skating; however, he [doesn't skate] very often.
2. Please [don't forget] to water the plants.
3. Today, I [am meeting] my friends for a coffee at the Corner Café.
4. I suggest that you [dress] warmly because the temperature is dropping.
5. [Do] you [know] where everyone has gone?
6. [Watch out] for the puddle!
7. To protect your head from a fall, it is important that you [wear] a helmet.
8. If I [were] to be late, you would have to leave without me.
9. Please [help] yourself to some homemade soup and crusty bread.
10. If they [were seen] breaking into the building, they will face charges.