Simpler alternatives for the subjunctive

AFTER our rigorous three-part review of the subjunctive, this form of the English language should no longer hold any terrors for us. But even with a good grasp of the subjunctive, we must remain cautious in using it. Subjunctive constructions, particularly those using "that"-clauses to state a desired outcome, often sound too formal and officious. It has a language register that we shouldn't allow ourselves to be caught using if we had a choice or if we knew better.

In fact, not everybody can normally give utterance to statements that use subjunctive "that"-clauses. They can arguably be used only by individuals who can invoke a vested power — whether real or imagined — to compel those beholden to them to follow what they say. Among them can be counted notable statesmen, legislators, bureaucrats, jurists, lawyers, ideologues, and clerics.