Why isn’t the Subjonctif Mood used here?

Shakir A.A1Kwiziq community member

Why isn’t the Subjonctif Mood used here?

For example why don’t we say « je pense que tu sois gentil » instead of « Je pense que tu es gentil »

Thanks in advance :)

Asked 5 years ago
Jean W.C1Kwiziq Q&A regular contributorCorrect answer

The verb penser and a few others have special rules regarding the use of the subjunctive. There are entire chapters in some grammar texts on this because it is quite complex, but as I understand it, the subjunctive is used for negative ideas or inverted interrogative phrases (ex. pensez-vous qu'il soit gentil ?) with these verbs. However, for affirmative statements as is the one in your question, the indicative is used. 

Why isn’t the Subjonctif Mood used here?

For example why don’t we say « je pense que tu sois gentil » instead of « Je pense que tu es gentil »

Thanks in advance :)

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