Imperatives are verb forms used to give orders, commands, instructions, or make requests. In English, imperatives are formed using the base form of the verb without a subject.
- Come here!
- Open the window.
- Please sit down.
Forming Imperatives
The structure of imperatives in English is simple:
Base form of verb (+ object if needed)
- Stop!
- Read this book.
Notice that we do not use a subject with imperatives. The implied subject is “you” (second person), but it’s not stated directly.
Types of Imperatives
1. Basic Commands
Used to tell someone to do something:
- Stand up.
- Turn left at the traffic light.
- Close the door.
2. Polite Requests
Adding “please” or using a rising intonation makes imperatives more polite:
- Please wait a moment.
- Could you pass me the salt, please?
3. Negative Imperatives
Formed by adding “don’t” or “do not” before the base form of the verb:
- Don’t touch that!
- Do not enter.
4. Emphatic Imperatives
Adding “do” for emphasis:
- Do be careful!
- Do try this cake.
5. Let’s Imperatives
Used for suggestions that include the speaker:
- Let’s go to the movies.
- Let’s not waste time.
Common Uses of Imperatives
Imperatives are used in many everyday situations:
Instructions
Recipe steps:
- Mix the flour and sugar. Add two eggs. Bake for 30 minutes.
Warnings
- Watch out!
- Be careful on the wet floor.
Invitations
- Come to dinner on Saturday.
- Join us for a drink after work.
Advice
- Take an umbrella. It might rain.
- Study harder if you want to pass the exam.
Softening Imperatives
Sometimes direct imperatives can sound too demanding or rude. Here are ways to soften them:
| Strategy | Example |
|---|---|
| Add “please” | Please wait here. |
| Use a question form | Could you wait here, please? |
| Add “just” | Just wait here for a moment. |
| Use “would you mind” | Would you mind waiting here? |
Real-World Examples
Imperatives are common in:
- Road signs: Stop. Yield. Keep right.
- Advertising: Just do it. Think different. Eat fresh.
- Computer commands: Save file. Delete folder. Open program.
- Emergency instructions: Exit the building. Call 911. Stay calm.
Cultural Note
In English-speaking cultures, especially British and American, using softeners with imperatives is important in most social and professional situations. Direct imperatives without “please” or other softeners can sound rude or aggressive, particularly when speaking to strangers or in formal settings.
Summary
- Imperatives use the base form of the verb without a subject.
- They’re used for giving commands, instructions, warnings, invitations, and advice.
- Negative imperatives are formed with “don’t” + base verb.
- “Let’s” imperatives include the speaker in the action.
- Imperatives can be softened with “please,” question forms, or other polite expressions.