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Celia qiang Posted 10 years ago
Grammar

Why does the sentence use subjunctive mood when the main verb is believe ?

I know we should use subjunctive mood when the main verbs are advice ,suggest etc.Then how about the main verb "believe"
I have read some sentences
I can't believe a guy like you would notice me.
I cant't believe she would do that to you.
Do these two sentences mean
A guy like you has noticed me/ She has done that to you. Although it is a fact ,but i still think it is real.
And another sentence
I can't believe he (should ) kill a tiger.
has he killed the tiger or not ?

Thanks
  

Top answer

The pattern "I can't believe someone would do something" is ambiguous about whether the thing has actually occurred or not. This can only be determined from the wider context. "I can't believe someone should do something" (your last example) is not very clear or natural, and I don't recommend it.

— GPY

  • The pattern "I can't believe someone would do something" is ambiguous about whether the thing has actually occurred or not.
  • This can only be determined from the wider context.
  • "I can't believe someone should do something" (your last example) is not very clear or natural, and I don't recommend it.
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1 Answers
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The pattern "I can't believe someone would do something" is ambiguous about whether the thing has actually occurred or not. This can only be determined from the wider context.

"I can't believe someone should do something" (your last example) is not very clear or natural, and I don't recommend it.
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