We opened the windows out of fear there might be a gas leak.

Eric D.C1Kwiziq community member

We opened the windows out of fear there might be a gas leak.

This question was found on a C1 test.  The answer that was provided was:  Nous avons ouvert les fenêtres de peur qu'il n'ait une fuite de gaz.

My problem is with the use of the word might.  Might means may be, could be, which suggests the use of pouvoir, de peur qu'il ne puisse y avoir une fuite de gaz.  When translating the answer that was given, I would say:  We opened the windows out of fear there was a gas leak.  No might is needed.

Asked 4 years ago
CécileKwiziq team memberCorrect answer

Hi Eric,

Shouldn't it be -

... qu'il n'y ait une fuite de gaz.

I think the word 'might' is used to indicate the possibility which is conveyed by the subjunctive in French.

We opened the windows out of fear there might be a gas leak.

This question was found on a C1 test.  The answer that was provided was:  Nous avons ouvert les fenêtres de peur qu'il n'ait une fuite de gaz.

My problem is with the use of the word might.  Might means may be, could be, which suggests the use of pouvoir, de peur qu'il ne puisse y avoir une fuite de gaz.  When translating the answer that was given, I would say:  We opened the windows out of fear there was a gas leak.  No might is needed.

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