Spanish Translation
Estoy segura de que fue un accidente.
Why is the subjunctive used here even though the subject says “I am sure that” which eliminates any shade of a doubt?
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I also have my problems with that!
You are right, the subjunctive in general expresses doubt but
there are lists of expressions which are always used with the subjunctive (including “essere sicuro/a”)
and in these cases “the grammar tops the feeling”.
I found this helpful: https://blog.learntravelitalian.com/use-the-italian-subjunctive-mood/
According to my (limited) experiences with Italian spoken by Italians there is some leeway in using the subjunctive, so if you choose wrongly you don’t have to hang your head in shame.
When in doubt I tend to use the subjunctive;-) Here I think it is used as you’re expressing an opinion. Happy to hear thoughts of others.