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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".
1 aug. 2012 23:55
Antwoorden · 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".
2 augustus 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 .
2 augustus 2012
1
It is subjunctive mood. This is future subjunctive, referring to a doubtful possibility. "Were" is used regardless of number.
2 augustus 2012
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Gabriella Bicalho
Taalvaardigheden
Engels, Portugees
Taal die wordt geleerd
Engels
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