This guide shows when to use the infinitive and when the subjunctive is needed, with simple examples and key phrases. You'll learn typical triggers so you can choose the right form in sentences about desires, doubts, and more.
Infinitive
The infinitive is the basic form of the verb and is used after expressions where there is no change of subject or when certain verbs, prepositions, or impersonal phrases govern it directly. It keeps the meaning neutral and straightforward.
Infinitive after Verbs
Many verbs are followed by the infinitive when the second action has the same subject, so you can attach the infinitive directly without turning to a clause.
Infinitive after Prepositions
Prepositions like pour, avant de, après, and à require the infinitive when they introduce an action, keeping the structure simple and concise.
Infinitive in Impersonal Expressions
Some impersonal expressions take the infinitive when they are general and do not introduce a subordinate clause, making the sentence more direct.
It was nice to be able to spend time with you.
Subjunctive
The subjunctive is used in subordinate clauses after expressions that show will, emotion, doubt, necessity, or when there is a change of subject. It signals that the action is not certain or is dependent on something.
Subjunctive after Will and Desire
When verbs of wanting, demanding, or preferring introduce a clause with a different subject, the subjunctive is required to mark that the action is wished for and not guaranteed.
Subjunctive after Emotion
Verbs and expressions of feeling like fear, joy, regret, or surprise trigger the subjunctive when they relate to an action or state dependent on the clause.
Subjunctive after Doubt and Negation
The subjunctive follows expressions of doubt, uncertainty, or denial, while positive affirmations usually take the indicative; this distinction helps signal how real or certain the speaker considers the action.
Subjunctive in Impersonal Expressions
Impersonal phrases that express necessity, judgment, or value such as il faut que or il est important que require the subjunctive when they introduce a subordinate clause with a different subject.
Subjunctive after Certain Conjunctions
Conjunctions like bien que, pour que, à moins que, and avant que trigger the subjunctive because they introduce conditions, purpose, or concession that affect the action's certainty.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025