Difference between indicative and subjunctive

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The mood of the verb is a system of meanings that express the nature of the action.

Indicative and subjunctive are two moods whit a very different meaning: indicative is the mood of reality and express certainty; the subjunctive normally is used to express a personal opinion and express uncertainty.

Example:
" Io dico che Marco è simpatico. "
This sentence expresses a sure affirmation.

Example:
" Io penso che Marco sia simpatico. "
This sentence expresses an uncertain opinion.

In the subordinating sentences there is often the problem of the choice of the verb's mood.

There are three different situations:

• some sentences or conjunctions demand only the indicative  (for example the posterior temporal subordinating sentences, or the conjunctions dopo che)

  Example:
  "Dopo che sono arrivato a casa mi sono fatto il caffè"

• some sentences or conjunctions demand only the subjunctive  (for example the final subordinating sentences or the conjunction qualora)

  Example:
  "Qualora tu non venga comunicamelo!"

• some sentences or conjunctions can use both indicative and subjunctive  (for example the declarative subordinating sentences or the conjunction che)

  Example:
  "Dico che è una bella giornata, ma penso che domani sia ancora più bella."

In this last case:

• the indicative expresses certainty  (normally is preceded by verbs that indicate reality)

  Example:
  "Marco è sicuro che oggi c'è la riunione."

• the subjunctive expresses uncertainty or opinion  (normally is preceded by verbs that indicate opinion, uncertainty, will or by impersonal constructions)

  Example:
  "Marco è sicuro che oggi c'è la riunione."

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