English grammar › C2
The subjunctive
Level C2 · I suggest he leave
What is the subjunctive?
After formal words of demand or importance, English uses the base verb for every person — no -s, no past form.
Where you meet it
- Formal letters and reports.
- After suggest, insist, recommend, demand.
- After it is essential / vital that …
Pattern
suggest / insist + that + subject + base verb
Examples
- I suggest that he **leave** now. — not “leaves”
The rule
After formal verbs and adjectives of demand (suggest, insist, recommend, essential), use the base verb for every person.
Everyday → formal: They asked that he should be on time. → They insisted that he be on time.
Tip
British English often uses should here: I suggest that he should leave. Both are correct.
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