Impersonal Verbs and the Subjunctive

Definition: Impersonal verbs in French are verbs predominantly used in the third person singular form (il/elle) regardless of what they refer to. They do not change to match the gender or number of the subject.
Examples of Impersonal Verbs: Some common impersonal verbs include “il faut” (it is necessary), “il semble” (it seems), “il s’agit de” (it’s about), and “il y a” (there is/are).
Using Impersonal Verbs: These verbs are often used to express general statements, opinions or conditions. They are not referring to a specific person or thing, but rather a general situation. For instance: “Il faut étudier dur pour réussir” (One must study hard to succeed).
The Subjunctive Mood: Is used in French to express doubt, necessity, desire or emotions. Unlike the indicative mood, which is used to express facts, the subjunctive is about expressing subjectivity.
When to use the Subjunctive: It’s generally used after expressions of necessity, doubt, or emotion. It’s also used after certain conjunctions, like “bien que” (although), “à moins que” (unless), “pour que” (so that).
Use of Subjunctive with Impersonal Verbs: French impersonal verbs sometimes require the use of the the subjunctive mood, particularly when expressing subjective concepts, for instance with “il faut que” (it is necessary that).
Formation of Subjunctive: To form the subjunctive mood, use the third person plural form of the present tense, drop the “-ent” ending, and add subjunctive endings (-e, -es, -e, -ions, -iez, -ent).
Practice: Regular practice translating sentences, and writing your own with impersonal verbs and the subjunctive mood, is key to understanding these grammatical features.
Regular Revision: Consistent reviewing of both impersonal verbs and the subjunctive mood will boost your familiarity and confidence in applying these rules in everyday language usage.
Online Resources: Utilise available online language learning platforms to drill these concepts into your understanding.