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Gabriella Bicalho
In the song "If I were a boy - Beyonce"
I can't understand why this is written "I were" and not "I was".
Aug 1, 2012 11:55 PM
Answers · 3
3
Yes, it's subjunctive mood. By singing "if I were a boy" Beyoncé is admitting that she is not, and was not ever, a boy. She simply imagines it.
If she sang "if I was a boy", she'd be treating the idea as a strong possibility or even reality. Maybe she can't remember her childhood and wonders if she was given a sex change at some point.
You'll find speakers using "was" in place of "were" when imagining weak possibilities. This is considered a bit careless, so pay attention and stick with "were".
August 2, 2012
1
it's subjunctive mood.this kind of use refers to the possibility of something in the future.and "if i were "this use is the normal use .
August 2, 2012
1
It is subjunctive mood. This is future subjunctive, referring to a doubtful possibility. "Were" is used regardless of number.
August 2, 2012
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Gabriella Bicalho
Language Skills
English, Portuguese
Learning Language
English
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