subjunctive vs futuro

R Z.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributor

subjunctive vs futuro

In the quiz question "Es posible que Miguel ________ mucho esta noche." why is it beba and not beberá? Isn't the futuro used to talk about probability? (The given English translation is, "It's possible Miguel will drink a lot tonight.") 

Asked 4 years ago
InmaKwiziq team memberCorrect answer

Hola R

Despite being a future idea, the fact that the introductory clause is "Es posible que..." triggers the subjunctive. We could make pretty much the same sentence with the future if we said something like:

Posiblemente Miguel beberá mucho esta noche.

But, the structure "ser + adjective + que... " triggers the subjunctive. 

Here is a lesson about this. Have a look.

Saludos

Inma

subjunctive vs futuro

In the quiz question "Es posible que Miguel ________ mucho esta noche." why is it beba and not beberá? Isn't the futuro used to talk about probability? (The given English translation is, "It's possible Miguel will drink a lot tonight.") 

Sign in to submit your answer

Don't have an account yet? Join today

Ask a question

Find your Spanish level for FREE

Test your Spanish to the CEFR standard

Find your Spanish level
Clever stuff happening!