An important grammar topic introduced to junior high school in the 2026 Course of Study is the past subjunctive. It expresses a present assumption that is different from reality or unlikely to come true.
Basic Rules
Form of the past subjunctive: If + subject + past-tense verb, subject + would/could/might + base verb.
It expresses an assumption contrary to present fact or a wish with little chance of coming true: “If ..., ... would happen (although reality is different).”
With the verb be, were is used with every subject according to the subjunctive rule (was is also acceptable in conversation). “If I were a bird, I could fly.”
I wish + the past subjunctive expresses a wish meaning “I wish ... were true”: “I wish I were taller.”
The difference from an ordinary if-condition: “If it rains, I will stay home” is a possible future condition. The subjunctive describes an unreal or impossible condition.
If I were rich, I would buy a big house.（If I were rich, I would buy a big house）
If I knew his number, I would call him.（If I knew his number, I would call him）
I wish I could speak French.（I wish I could speak French）
If she were here, she would help us.（If she were here, she would help us）
Points to Remember
① Distinguishing it from an ordinary conditional:
- Conditional sentence (if): possible → present tense + will “If it rains tomorrow, I will stay home.”
- Past subjunctive: difficult to realize or contrary to fact → past tense + would “If I were you, I would tell the truth.”
② Use were consistently with be: “If I were 〜” and “If he were 〜” ← grammatically, use were with all subjects. “If I was 〜” is also used in conversation.
③ Modal verbs in the main clause: would (would probably), could (would be able to), and might (might). Choose according to the strength of the meaning.
④ I wish + past subjunctive: a present wish meaning “I wish ... were true.” “I wish I had a car.” and “I wish she were here.”
⑤ The past perfect subjunctive “If + subject + had + past participle, subject + would have + past participle” is studied in high school.
- If + past tense, subject + would/could/might + base form
- Use were consistently with be (grammatically)
- An assumption contrary to present fact or difficult to realize
- I wish + past subjunctive = “I wish ... were true”
- Distinguish it from an ordinary if-condition (possible)
Practice
- Write “If I were you, I would study more” in English.
- Write “If I had money, I would go to Europe” in English.
- Write “I wish I could run faster” in English using I wish.