How do I use the subjunctive after negative statements?Grammar Genius, I am a little confused about how to use the subjunctive after negative statements such as "nadie, nunca, etc." Why do I use the subjunctive in "Nunca haré lo que me mandaran si no me dan alguan razón para ello,¨ (I will never do what they ordered me to do if they do not give me a reason for it) if doubt is not involved in the sentence?
When the subordinate clause contains an indefinate or negative subordinating conjunctions, such as seen below, the subjunctive is used. Keep in mind that the below list is not inclusive and that the basic formula is: negative statement + que + subjunctive.
NOTE: If any of the above antecedents are used to express a conclusive action (in the past or present) or a definate idea, the subjunctive is not needed. Compare the following:
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