Were Subjunctive

What is the Were-Subjunctive?

The were-subjunctive uses “were” for all persons (including I, he, she, it) in unreal or hypothetical situations.

”If I Were You”

This is the most common use:

• If I were you, I would accept the job.
• If I were in your position, I would apologize.
• If I were rich, I would travel the world.

Note: “If I was” is common in informal speech, but “If I were” is considered more correct in formal contexts.

In Second Conditional

If + were, would + verb

All Persons Use “Were”

• If I were taller, I would play basketball.
• If she were here, she would know what to do.
• If he were more careful, this wouldn’t have happened.
• If it were cheaper, I would buy it.
• If we were free, we would come.

After “Wish”

Expressing wishes about unreal present situations:

Wish + were

• I wish I were younger.
• She wishes she were on vacation.
• He wishes he were more confident.
• I wish it were Friday already.
• We wish we were there with you.

Wish + could

• I wish I could fly.
• She wishes she could speak French.
• I wish I could help.

After “As If / As Though”

When describing something unreal:

• He acts as if he were the boss. (but he isn’t)
• She talks as if she were an expert. (but she isn’t)
• They behave as though they were rich. (but they aren’t)
• He looks as if he were ill. (uncertain)

After “If Only”

Expressing strong wishes or regret:

• If only I were there!
• If only she were more understanding.
• If only it were possible.

”Were” vs. “Was” - The Debate

Both are understood, but “were” is preferred in:

• Formal writing
• Academic contexts
• Fixed expressions (“If I were you”)

Fixed Expressions with Were

• If I were you… (advice)
• If it were up to me… (opinion)
• If need were… (necessity)
• As it were… (so to speak)
• Be that as it may… (regardless)

Quiz