French grammar: emploi du subjonctif présent

What this grammar point covers

The present subjunctive (subjonctif présent) is a verb form in French. It expresses doubt, wishes, emotions, necessity, or uncertainty, often after specific expressions or conjunctions.

When to use it

Use the subjonctif présent in French after certain expressions that show doubt, desire, necessity, emotions, or possibility. It is often used after 'que' when the main clause expresses these ideas.

Key forms

• que + subject + verb in subjonctif présent
• Example: Il faut que tu viennes.
• Regular endings: -e, -es, -e, -ions, -iez, -ent

Examples

Tips

• Remember to use the subjunctive after expressions like 'il faut que', 'je veux que', 'je doute que'.
• The subjunctive is rarely used alone; it usually follows 'que'.
• Some verbs have irregular subjunctive forms, like 'être' (sois, sois, soit...) and 'avoir' (aie, aies, ait...).

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs have irregular forms in the subjunctive (être, avoir, aller, faire, etc.).
• After certain expressions of certainty (like 'je pense que'), the indicative is used, not the subjunctive.