In the passive subjunctive, the subjunctive forms of the copula ([§ 272]) are used as auxiliaries:—present, If I be struck; past, If I were struck; perfect, If I have been struck; pluperfect, If I had been struck. (See table, [p. 304].)
274. Progressive verb-phrases in the subjunctive may be formed by means of the copula:—present, If I be striking; past, If I were striking. The present is rare; the past is common.
Uses of the Subjunctive
Subjunctive in Wishes and Exhortations
275. The subjunctive is often used in wishes or prayers.
- Angels and ministers of grace defend us!
- Heaven help him!
- The saints preserve us!
- God bless you!
- Long live the king!
- O that I had listened to him!
- O that we were rid of him!
In the first five examples, the wish is expressed in an independent sentence. In the last two, the construction is subordinate,—the that-clause being the object of an unexpressed “I wish” ([§ 407]).
276. The subjunctive be is often omitted when it may easily be supplied.
- Peace [be] to his ashes!
- Honor [be] to his memory!
- Honor [be] to whom honor is due!
277. Wishes are often introduced by may or would.