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Fab54 Posted 21 years ago
Grammar

I would prefer that.....

Hi, happy new year!

Which of the following sentences is correct?
1) I would prefer that he give me the present now
2) I would prefer that he should give me the present now
3) I would prefer that he gives me the present now

And if there is more than one correct sentence, do they express the same idea?

Thanks
  

Top answer

(1) is classic mandative subjunctive, and the most formally correct. (3) is also acceptable these days. (2) may be a Briticism, and I am not competent to comment on how far the use of 'should' extends.

— Mister Micawber

  • (1) is classic mandative subjunctive, and the most formally correct.
  • (3) is also acceptable these days.
  • (2) may be a Briticism, and I am not competent to comment on how far the use of 'should' extends.
  • It seems awkward to me.
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1 Answers
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(1) is classic mandative subjunctive, and the most formally correct.
(3) is also acceptable these days.
(2) may be a Briticism, and I am not competent to comment on how far the use of 'should' extends. It seems awkward to me.

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