jussive

/ˈdʒʌsɪv/ or /ˈdʒusɪv/

Definitions

1. noun

A clause or sentence used to express a wish, command, or exhortation, often in the form of a subjunctive mood.

“The lawyer’s jussive ‘may it please the court’ was a classic example of formal phrasing.”

2. adjective

Of or relating to a jussive clause or sentence.

“The jussive mood in the language is used to convey strong emotions.”

Synonyms

  • exhortative
  • prescriptive

Antonyms

  • permissive