Der Konjunktiv: Überblick – The Subjunctive: Overview
The subjunctive mood (in contrast to the indicative mood – such as statements) is used for hypothetical statements (if, what if, if only…) and politeness (especially with modal verbs).
Usage
1. Hypothetical statements (if, what if, if only…)
| Wenn ich eine bessere Arbeit hätte, wäre ich glücklicher. | If I had a better job, I would be happier. |
2. Politeness (especially with modal verbs)
| Könnten Sie bitte den Tisch decken? | Could you please set the table? |
3. Reported, indirect speech
| Die Mutter hat versprochen, dass sie zum Supermarkt gehen werde. Juchuh! | The mother promised that she would go to the grocery store. Yeah! |
There are two main types of subjunctive:
- Konjunktiv I (indirect speech)
- Konjunktiv II (hypothetical situations, politeness)
