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Louis8799 Posted 16 years ago
Grammar
Use of "be"
Following is a quote from "Capitalism and Freedom":
Even though the men who wield this power initially be of-good will and even though they be not corrupted by the power they exercise, the power will both attract and form men of a different stamp.
Why the two bold "be" are used instead of "is" or "are"?
Thanks
Even though the men who wield this power initially be of-good will and even though they be not corrupted by the power they exercise, the power will both attract and form men of a different stamp.
Why the two bold "be" are used instead of "is" or "are"?
Thanks
Top answer
'Be' here is the present subjunctive form, used in certain statements of volition or will. I'm not sure that it is really applicable here; but that's what Friedman has done. 'Are' would have been fine.
- 'Be' here is the present subjunctive form, used in certain statements of volition or will.
- I'm not sure that it is really applicable here; but that's what Friedman has done.
- 'Are' would have been fine.
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1 Answers
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'Be' here is the present subjunctive form, used in certain statements of volition or will. I'm not sure that it is really applicable here; but that's what Friedman has done. 'Are' would have been fine.
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