The modal verbs in the subjunctive

Reminder: the modal verbs are potere (can, to be able to), dovere (must, to have to), volere (to want to) and sapere (to know how to). They are generally used in their conjugated forms and are followed by another verb in the infinitive.

Toni sa suonare il piano.

Toni knows how to play the piano.

In the subjunctive, the four modal verbs are conjugated like this:

Potere
Io possa
Tu possa
Lui/lei possa
Noi possiamo
Voi possiate
Loro possano
Dovere
Io debba/deva
Tu debba/deva
Lui/lei debba/deva
Noi dobbiamo
Voi dobbiate
Loro debbano/devano
Volere
Io voglia
Tu voglia
Lui/lei voglia
Noi vogliamo
Voi vogliate
Loro vogliano
Sapere
Io sappia
Tu sappia
Lui/lei sappia
Noi sappiamo
Voi sappiate
Loro sappiano

Non credo che Carlotta sappia cucinare.

I don't think that Carlotta knows how to cook.

Spero che tu voglia andare al cinema.

I hope that you want to go to the cinema.


Still facing difficulties with 'The modal verbs in the subjunctive'? Enhance your grammar and learn Italian through our online Italian lessons.
Start with a free test and improve today!

What our users say:

Pleasure

         

I enjoy doing my online Italian lessons. Only ten minutes daily are enough...Thank you!

Innovative

         

I love your innovative method which allows me to learn a new language and have fun at the same time!

Unique

         

Your method is unique! Your courses have helped me to progress and gain confidence during my travels.

Progress

         

Gymglish has allowed me to improve my Italian. A daily routine I wouldn't miss for anything in the world!

More testimonials.

Improve your Italian further and test Saga Baldoria, online Italian course.