THE GIFT OF GAB

16. Florence had best seek her counsellor’s professional advice (correct).

In addition, it is worthy of note that ‘I wish’ attracts the past tense, particularly when used in the present form, as in:

17. I wish I am prettier (incorrect).

I wish I were prettier (correct).

18. Aminat wishes that she can sing (incorrect).

Aminat wishes that she could sing (correct).

With regard to the past subjunctive mood, it is pertinent to note that, because of its hypothetical nature, it is quite appropriate — especially in formal settings — to say, ‘If I were…’; not ‘If I was…’

19. If I was the human resources director, I would employ Kenneth (non-standard).

If I were the human resources director, I would employ Kenneth (correct).

20. If she was you, she would tender her resignation (non-standard).

If she were you, she would tender her resignation (correct).

At this juncture, it is essential to mention the exception to the usages of the subjunctives. Notably, the present tense of a verb is used when the subjunctive is followed by ‘to’. 21. It’s time to left (incorrect).

It’s time to leave (correct).

22. I wish to did it (incorrect).

I wish to do it (correct).

In conclusion, I hope this treatise will elevate your grasp of the prestigious English language going forward.

Dr Bamgbose (Dr GAB) has a PHD in English and lectures at the Pan-atlantic University, Lagos. He is a social commentator who writes on different issues of national concern and the author of daily online English lessons titled “English for Today” with hundreds of lessons available on his website www.englishdietng.com.