I seem to recall that when using the subjunctive in English we would use "may." I don't see "may" used in any of the English translations. Is my understanding of the use of "may" out of date or just plain wrong? Thanks!
Function of English "may" in French subjonctif présent
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William C.Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor
Function of English "may" in French subjonctif présent
This question relates to:French lesson "Conjugate vouloir in the subjunctive present in French (Le Subjonctif Présent)"
Asked 4 years ago
The use of “may” is not always explicit in English and also only covers some uses of the French subjunctive. Here is an example:
Que tes vœux se réalisent. — May your wishes come true.
Even in English we use the subjunctive (mostly without realizing): (May) God save the Queen!
There are many constructions in French which ask for the subjunctive that have no parallel in English, though:
Il faut que je parte. Je ne crois pas qu’il vienne. Je dois faire le menage avant qu’ils n’arrivent.
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