First Known Use: 1530
Dictionary
1subjunctive
adjective sub·junc·tive \səb-ˈjən(k)-tiv\
grammar : of or relating to the verb form that is used to express suggestions, wishes, uncertainty, possibility, etc.
Full Definition of SUBJUNCTIVE
: of, relating to, or constituting a verb form or set of verb forms that represents a denoted act or state not as fact but as contingent or possible or viewed emotionally (as with doubt or desire) <the subjunctive mood>
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Origin of SUBJUNCTIVE
Late Latin subjunctivus, from Latin subjunctus, past participle of subjungere to join beneath, subordinate
2subjunctive
noun
the subjunctive : the form that a verb or sentence has when it is expressing a suggestion, wish, uncertainty, possibility, etc.
: a subjunctive verb or sentence
Full Definition of SUBJUNCTIVE
1
: the subjunctive mood of a language
2
: a form of verb or verbal in the subjunctive mood
See subjunctive defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of SUBJUNCTIVE
1622
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