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Anonymous Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Politeness in questions/requests

I wondered if you were free tomorrow.

I know that the use of the past tense in 'wondered' shows politeness.

Why is the second past tense, were, still in the past tense?

Does it show politeness or is it in the subjunctive mood?

Thanks no end.

Have a cup of morning coffee.Emotion: coffee
  

Top answer

The verb in the dependent clause regresses with the main verb: I wonder if you are free tomorrow. I wondered if you were free tomorrow.

— Mister Micawber

  • The verb in the dependent clause regresses with the main verb: I wonder if you are free tomorrow.
  • I wondered if you were free tomorrow.
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2 Answers
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The verb in the dependent clause regresses with the main verb:

I wonder if you are free tomorrow.

I wondered if you were free tomorrow.
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Thank you, mister Micawber.
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