Subjunctive for requests (pedir que)

Influencing Others

When you want to influence another person's actions—whether by asking, advising, or commanding—use the subjunctive mood. Because you are expressing a desire or directive rather than a guaranteed fact, the second verb takes the subjunctive.

The structure is: Subject 1 + verb of influence + que + Subject 2 + subjunctive verb

Making Requests and Demands

Verbs like pedir (to ask/request), exigir (to demand), and mandar (to order) trigger the subjunctive for the person receiving the command.

The boss demands that the employee work today.
El jefe exige que el empleado trabaje hoy.
They ask me to finish the report; however, I don't have time.
Me piden que termine el reporte; sin embargo, no tengo tiempo.
The supervisor orders you to write the report.
El supervisor manda que escribas el reporte.

Giving Advice and Recommendations

Verbs like aconsejar (to advise) and recomendar (to recommend) followed by que are used to offer guidance.

I advise you to read the report now.
Te aconsejo que leas el reporte ahora.
I recommend that the employees change the deadline.
Recomiendo que los empleados cambien el plazo.

Pleading and Prohibiting

Verbs like rogar (to beg) and prohibir (to prohibit) follow the exact same rule.

I beg you to give me the authorization.
Les ruego que me den la autorización.
The rule prohibits you from using the phone.
La norma prohíbe que uses el teléfono.