[Grammar] subjunctive mood

[joseph0928]

I have a question about subjunctive mood in a clause.

The question:
I thought John was at home but he actually wasn't.
Should I say "I thought John should have been at home but he actually wasn't."?

Should I put subjunctive mood in the clause if I am sure the statement is converse to the truth ?
Thank you

 

[Matthew Wai]

Welcome to UsingEnglish.com, joseph0928!

The past subjunctive is 'were', that's what I learned from grammar sites.

I am not a teacher.

 

[Barb_D]

Did you think he was home, or did you think he had an obligation to be home?

 

[joseph0928]

Did you think he was home, or did you think he had an obligation to be home?

So, if I thought he was home, then subjunctive mood is not necessary.
If I thought he had an obligation to be home, then I should say "I thought he should have been home."
It's all about the meaning I want to express, not simply a grammar rule.
Is that right?
Thank you

 

[MikeNewYork]

The subjunctive mood is always about the view of the speaker/writer.

 

[Tdol]

It's all about the meaning I want to express, not simply a grammar rule.
Is that right?

Yes