Subjunctive vs. Indicative: Expressing Reality vs. Desire

In Spanish, the verb 'mood' you choose shows your perspective on what you're saying. Is it a fact, or is it a wish, doubt, or emotion? That's the core difference between the Indicative and the Subjunctive.

The Indicative: The Mood of Reality

Use the indicative to talk about facts, certainties, and objective realities. If you believe it's true and are stating it as a fact, use the indicative.

• Yo **sé que** tú **eres** inteligente. (I know that you are smart.) - This is presented as a fact.
• **Creo que** mañana **llueve**. (I think that it is raining tomorrow.) - This expresses a belief.

The Subjunctive: The Mood of Subjectivity

The subjunctive is used when you are not stating a fact, but expressing a subjective reaction to something. We use it after certain trigger phrases. A great way to remember these triggers is the acronym WEIRDO:

• Wishes: To express hopes and desires.

  • Espero que **vengas** a la fiesta. (I hope that you come to the party.)

• Emotions: To express an emotional reaction.

  • Me alegro de que **estés** aquí. (I'm happy that you are here.)

• Impersonal Expressions: To state that something is necessary, important, good, bad, etc.

  • Es importante que **estudies**. (It's important that you study.)

• Recommendations: To give advice or make suggestions.

  • Te recomiendo que **leas** este libro. (I recommend that you read this book.)

• Doubt & Denial: To express uncertainty or deny something.

  • Dudo que él **tenga** la respuesta. (I doubt that he has the answer.)
  • No creo que **sea** verdad. (I don't believe that it's true.)

• Ojalá: A special word that means 'I hope' or 'if only' and is always followed by the subjunctive.

  • Ojalá que no **llueva**. (I hope it doesn't rain.)

The key takeaway: Look for a WEIRDO trigger phrase. If you see one, the verb that follows que will likely be in the subjunctive. If you're just stating a fact or belief (sé que, creo que, es verdad que), use the indicative.