Unusual Usages of Tenses

“Unusual tense usage” refers to instances where the grammatical form of a tense does not align with its typical time reference (e.g., using a past form for a present meaning), or when specific tenses are employed for stylistic effect or to convey particular nuances.

Subjunctive and counterfactual pasts

These forms use a past tense to refer to a non-past (present or future) situation that is hypothetical, desired, or contrary to fact.

Present subjunctive (base form): used for recommendations, demands, or wishes, often without -s for third-person singular.

• It is crucial that he be informed. (instead of is)
• I move that the meeting be adjourned.
• The committee demands that he be here by noon. (instead of is)
• It is imperative that she finish the report today. (instead of finishes)
• Long live the King! (optative, instead of lives)

Past subjunctive / modal past: uses the past simple form for present/future hypotheticals, wishes, or preferences.

• If I were rich, I’d buy an island. (instead of was)
• I wish she knew the truth now. (referring to a present state)
• I’d rather you came tomorrow. (referring to a future action)
• If only I could fly. (referring to a present ability)
• If I were a millionaire, I’d travel the world.
• If I were you, I’d leave immediately.
• She acts as though she were the boss. (instead of was)
• I’d rather/sooner he went home now.
  • Unusual usage: “went” (past simple) is used to express a preference for a present or future action, not a past one.
  • Subjunctive connection: this construction functions like a past subjunctive, indicating a hypothetical or desired situation contrary to present reality, or a strong preference. The past tense here marks unreality or remoteness, not past time.
• I wish he stopped now.
  • Unusual usage: “stopped” (past simple) expresses a wish about a present situation that is contrary to fact.
  • Subjunctive connection: similar to “I’d rather,” the past simple after “wish” acts as a past subjunctive equivalent. It expresses regret or a desire for a present reality that is different from what it actually is.
• If only I could go now.
  • Unusual usage: “could” (past modal) expresses a wish for a present ability or possibility that the speaker doesn’t have.
  • Subjunctive connection: “if only” introduces a counterfactual situation. “Could” is the past form of “can” and serves as a past subjunctive equivalent here, conveying a hypothetical ability or a strong, often unfulfillable, desire for the present.

Inverted conditional (implied subjunctive)

• Were I to win the lottery, I would retire immediately. (instead of “If I were to win…”)

The historical and narrative present

These usages employ the present tense to describe past events for vividness or to discuss creative works.

• Historical present: uses the simple present to narrate past events as if they are happening now, to create immediacy.
  • In 1776, the Founding Fathers sign the Declaration of Independence.
  • So, I walk into the room, and there he is!
• Narrative / literary present: used when discussing events within a work of fiction, a play, or a piece of art.
  • Hamlet grapples with existential dread throughout the play.
  • The painting depicts a serene landscape.

Tense for future events

Sometimes, non-future tenses are used to express future actions, especially if they are fixed or planned.

• Scheduled future (present simple): used for events fixed by a timetable or schedule.
  • The train leaves at 7 PM.
  • Our flight departs next Tuesday.
• Future in the past: describes an action that was future from a past perspective, often using “would” or “was going to.”
  • She said she would call later. (from “I will call later”)
  • I thought he was going to arrive yesterday. (from “He is going to arrive today,” said yesterday)

“Could” in present meaning

• He could be hurt (now). Maybe he is hurt.
• If only I could go now. (expressing a wish)

In conditionals

• Past perfect instead of simple past
  • Hypothetical situation in the past: If I had come home earlier, I would have seen him.
• Past simple in present meaning
  • Hypothetical situation in the present: If I won the lottery, I’d travel the world.

Present Perfect in future meaning

Under the topic of Future Time Clauses, the Present Perfect is used referring to the future when:

• the action in the main clause happens after the action in the future time clause
  • note: the present simple can also be used in this sense without difference in meaning
• the meaning of present simple would be ambiguous
  • When I take a shower, I’ll call you. (ambiguous: Will I call during of after the shower?)
  • When I have taken a shower, I’ll call you. (clear)
• there is emphasis on the conclusion of the action in the future time clause before the action in the main clause can take place
  • When you have finished your homework, you’ll be allowed to go outside.