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Discussion Forum—A Way with Words, a fun radio show and podcast about language

A Way with Words, a radio show and podcast about language and linguistics.

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To be or is
Paul
1
2008/03/30 - 12:35am

There have been several situations recently in which I have seen verbs, specifically the verb 'be', left unconjugated and in which I would have otherwise assumed that the verb should be conjugated. I have three specific examples:

1. The dependent clause in some kind of conditional. For example, "Whether it be spicy or sweet, I love Thai food."

2. The title of the Philip Larkin poem, "This Be The Verse."

3. The maps of old timey sailors. For example, "Here be dragons."

Is there ever such an example where it be acceptable to leave that verb unconjugated as opposed to replacing it with 'is' or 'are' or is that just bad or archaic grammar? If it is acceptable, does that specific grammar rule have a name?

This has been plaguing me for years. Thank you so much for your help.

Guest
2
2008/03/30 - 3:39pm

Paul, the first example you have given here is acceptable and the name of the rule by which it functions is called the subjunctive mood. Nowadays, it usually only occurs in constructions like that in example one, where the basic meaning is “whether X or Y”.

Larkin's poem may have been construed in an informal setting. Another example of this would be “Cabbages Is Beautiful”.

Example three, may have been grammatical at one point but it is clear here that the pirate/sailor/swashbuckler is using the indicative mood.

In short, the subjunctive is used largely in constructions that feature information that is contrary to present (known) conditions. But, don't feel odd if you don't ever use the subjunctive yourself: methinks it be too old for the likings o' many a folk—argh!

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