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Paul Evdokimov Posted 11 years ago
Grammar

The present subjunctive

Hi there,

Here is a sentence from English grammar in context:

"Many Americans regretted that such weapons had been used, and began to demand they WOULD never be used again."

I can't justify the author's choice of 'would'; 'should' is OK as well as '...they never be used again'. Is it correct to substitute the present subjunctive or less formal 'should' with 'would' ?
  

Top answer

Paul Evdokimov Is it correct to substitute the present subjunctive or less formal 'should' with 'would' ? Sure. Native speakers do not quibble over such grammar points.

— Mister Micawber

  • Paul Evdokimov Is it correct to substitute the present subjunctive or less formal 'should' with 'would' ?
  • Sure.
  • Native speakers do not quibble over such grammar points.
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2 Answers
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Paul Evdokimov Is it correct to substitute the present subjunctive or less formal 'should' with 'would' ?
Sure. Native speakers do not quibble over such grammar points.
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Mister MicawberNative speakers do not quibble over such grammar points.
Pardon the pun, but they SHOULD.
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