<p>This is from the PSAT earlier this school year, I was looking over the questions I got wrong to prepare for the SAT on Saturday, and I can't seem to figure this one out!</p>
<p>It is imperative that the government not censor this exhibit, no matter how offensive the images may be, but continues to protect artists' freedom of expression.</p>
<p>I put E, no error, but apparently the answer is D, continues to protect.. why? Isn't government a singular noun that requires a singular verb?</p>
<p>I think it is because “but continues to protect” is ambiguous. What is it referring to, the exhibit or the government? What continues to protect artists’ freedom?</p>
<p>The subjunctive mood is being used. It is imperative that the government not censor this exhibit. It is imperative that the government continue<a href=“not” title=“continues”>/u</a> to protect artists’ freedom of expression. Normally we would use “continues” since “government” is singular, but the subjunctive mood requires a plural verb in this case. The subjunctive mood is used to express a wish, a recommendation, a possibility, etc. Here are some examples of the subjunctive mood:
If I were a billionaire, I would buy me a mansion.
It is necessary that he behave appropriately.</p>