What triggers the subjunctive in Spanish?

When deciding whether you should use the subjunctive, you should first consider if there is an element of doubt, uncertainity or desire in the sentence. If so, it is likely that the subjunctive should be used. E.g I don't think that we will leave late > No creo que salgamos tarde. Here, the uncertainity arises from the fact that the speaker is not sure when they will leave. Therefore the verb 'salir' must be conjugated in the subjunctive. Another tip for spotting a subjunctive trigger is the use of 'que' in a sentence you think might need the subjunctive, as triggers often include 'que'. A few examples of this would be 'Es importante que', 'Es bueno que' and 'Es probable que', which all trigger the subjunctive.

KH
Answered by Kate H. Spanish tutor

2407 Views

See similar Spanish A Level tutors

Related Spanish A Level answers

All answers ▸

When do I use the subjunctive?


How do I form the subjunctive mood? And what is it for?


When is the subjunctive used with cuando?


When do you use the Preterito perfecto and when the Preterito Indefinido?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning