Understanding the Subjunctive in Italian Adverbial Clauses
What is the Subjunctive Mood?
The subjunctive mood, known as "il congiuntivo" in Italian, is a verb form used to express doubt, hypothesis, wishes, or uncertainty. It conveys actions or feelings that are considered possible but not certain.
Understanding Adverbial Clauses
Adverbial clauses function as adverbs in a sentence, providing information about time, reason, condition, contrast, and manner. They answer questions like when, why, and how. In Italian, adverbial clauses often require the use of the subjunctive mood.
Types of Adverbial Clauses that Use the Subjunctive
Not all adverbial clauses in Italian require the subjunctive, but certain types do, particularly those that introduce uncertainty or condition. These include clauses of purpose, concession, condition, and time.
Purpose Clauses
Purpose clauses in Italian often use the subjunctive mood. They are introduced by conjunctions such as "affinché," "perché" (when meaning "in order that"), and "in modo che."
Studierò molto affinché io possa superare l'esame.
I will study hard so that I can pass the exam.
Sta in silenzio affinché non disturbi nessuno.
He is silent in order that he not disturb anyone.
Condition Clauses
Condition clauses describe the conditions under which something happens and are often introduced by conjunctions like "a condizione che" or "purché," which use the subjunctive.
A condizione che non piova, andremo.
Provided that it doesn't rain, we will go.
Puoi prendere in prestito il libro purché tu lo restituisca.
You can borrow the book provided you return it.
Concession Clauses
These clauses express a concession and are often introduced by "sebbene," "benché," or "nonostante," all requiring the subjunctive.
Sebbene sia stanca, continua a lavorare.
Even though she is tired, she continues to work.
Benché sia tardi, rimane alla festa.
Although it is late, he stays at the party.
Using the Subjunctive in Time Clauses
Time clauses describe when something happens and may use the subjunctive when the action described is viewed as hypothetical or uncertain.
Aspetterò finché non arrivi.
I will wait until he arrives.
Ti sentirai meglio una volta che tu abbia mangiato.
You'll feel better once you have eaten.
Further Reading
- Italian Subjunctive Mood
Dive deeper into the fundamentals of the Italian subjunctive mood.
- Using the Subjunctive in Italian
Learn about scenarios where the subjunctive is required.
- Italian Adverbial Clauses
Understand when and how to use different adverbial clauses.
- The Subjunctive Mood in Italian
Explore various uses and examples of the subjunctive mood.
- Easy Learning Italian Grammar
Access a broad range of Italian grammar topics for beginners.