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The Subjunctive-Indicative Distinction (S/I)

 
  Introduction | S/I in Noun Clauses | S/I in Adjective Clauses | S/I in Adverbial Clauses | S/I in Si Clauses  
  Past subjunctive, Sequence of Tenses | Perfect Subjunctive Tenses | Subjunctive in Main Clauses | Subjunctive After Ojalá  
 
  THE SUBJUNCTIVE IN MAIN (INDEPENDENT) CLAUSES  
 
  • Though exceptional, the subjunctive is sometimes use in a main clause.
    • In indirect commands:
      • No quiero hacer esto. ¡Que lo haga él!
        • I don't want to do this. Let him do it!
      • Haya luz.
        • Let there be light.
    • After certain words that describe possibility, to show a greater degree of doubt (alternates with indicative):
      • No sé qué hora es. Tal vez son / sean las dos.
        • I don't know what time it is. Maybe it's three o'clock.
      • Quizás se cancela / cancele el partido.
        • Perhaps the game will be cancelled.
 
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