Subjunctive after wishes and emotion
I want / I'm glad that…
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Express hopes and reactions with espero que, quiero que, and me alegra que. Practice choosing a clause or an infinitive in Spanish.
I want / I'm glad that…
Use the subjunctive after wishes and emotional reactions such as quiero que, espero que, and me alegra que. Ojalá also takes the subjunctive and does not require que. A same-subject wish often uses an infinitive: Quiero salir.
Examples in context
Read the examples and compare their English meanings.
Use it in a conversation
Quiero salir describes your own wish to leave; quiero que salgas asks for someone else's action. Emotion can refer to a known fact: me alegra que estés aquí does not suggest doubt. A change of subject is useful for this contrast, not a universal requirement for the subjunctive. Ojalá can appear without que.
Quiero descansar. Quiero que descanses tú también.
I want to rest. I want you to rest too.
Me alegro de que tengas tiempo para leer.
I am glad that you have time to read.
Ojalá podamos cenar juntos.
I hope we can have dinner together.
Common mix-ups
English speakers often default to the indicative 'vienes', forgetting that a change of subject after 'querer' demands the subjunctive 'vengas'.
I want you to come tomorrow.
Try a reply
Say or write your answer in Spanish before opening the example.
I am glad that you can come. Address one friend.
Show one possible answer
Me alegra que puedas venir.
Other wording can work too. Compare the verb form, agreement, and word order with the lesson. Then try a sentence about your own day.
Keep practicing
Related grammar
Practice Spanish grammar in context
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