Subjunctive

The English subjunctive is the base form of the verb (be, go, have) for every person. At this level it appears in two places: after words that express a demand or a proposal, and in a few fixed phrases.

• After verbs of demand and proposal

  demand, insist, recommend, suggest, propose, request, order + that + subject + base form. There is no -s, even after he, she or it.

  The union demanded that the director resign.

  We recommend that every guest book in advance.

• After adjectives and nouns of importance

  essential, vital, crucial, imperative + that, and nouns like demand, proposal, recommendation.

  It is crucial that no one be left behind.

  The proposal that taxes be raised was rejected.

• Negatives and passives

  not goes straight before the base form, with no do; the passive is be + past participle.

  The minister asked that his name not be published.

  The union insists that its members be consulted.

• Should + base form

  also correct, and common in British English. In informal British English you will also hear the ordinary present (that he resigns), but formal writing uses the base form.

  The union demanded that the director should resign.

• Fixed phrases

  a few expressions keep the old subjunctive, and their words never change.

  So be it: if they want a fight, they'll get one.

  Were it not for the bridge, the village would be cut off.

Common mistakes

• ✗ The doctor recommended that she takes a week off.→✓ The doctor recommended that she take a week off.Base form for every person: no -s. That she should take is also correct.
• ✗ They suggested me to apply for the job.→✓ They suggested that I apply for the job.Suggest never takes object + to + infinitive.
• ✗ Be as it may, we need a decision.→✓ Be that as it may, we need a decision.