Complex sentences
Hi,
I have a question about sentences with 2 or more clauses. When we use a clause like “Espero que” or “Pienso que” and then have a change of subject in the second clause, we use the subjunctive. What about when there is no subject change? Can we use the indicative in the second clause, or do we have to use the infinitive? For example, “Pienso que voy a ir a Quito”, or “Pienso que ir a Quito”…or something else? Or are they both correct?
Thank you.
2 Answers
Pensar is similar to creer. It can be used with either the indicative or the subjunctive.
Whether it is indicative or subjunctive depends on the speaker's intention. With creer and pensar it is usually the negative form that requires the subjunctive.
I think that he is going to Quito. (I am declaring that it is possible that he will go to Quito)
Pienso que él (va) irá a Quito.
I don't think that he is going to Quito. I'm expressing my doubt that something will occur.
No pienso que él vaya a Quito.
When there is no subject change and you use the infinitive you do not create a subordinate clause.
Pensar is not a good verb for an example.
Quiero que [usted] vaya a Quito. I want that you go to Quito.
Quiero ir a Quito. I want to go to Quito. (I want that I go to Quito)
With pienso que, you don't use subjunctive after because it's something that you think to be so. For that second sentence, "pienso que ir a Quito" it should be "pienso ir a Quito". I plan to go to Quito.
