The imperative tells someone what to do. We use it for commands, instructions, advice, and requests.
Imperatives use the base form of the verb and usually have no subject: (You) Open the door.
Affirmative: Take a seat. |
Negative: Don’t touch that. |
Polite: Please wait here.
1) How to Form Imperatives
- Base verb only: Speak louder. / Check your email.
- Negative: Don’t forget your keys. / Don’t run.
- Let’s for shared actions: Let’s start. / Let’s take a break.
2) Common Uses
- Commands / Orders: Stop talking.
- Instructions / Recipes / Directions: Turn left. / Mix the sugar and butter.
- Advice / Suggestions: Try again. / Take an umbrella.
- Requests: Please email me today.
3) Politeness Strategies
Imperatives can sound friendly or rude depending on the words we add and our tone.
| Strategy | Pattern | Example |
|---|
| Use “please” |
Please + base verb |
Please close the window. |
| Softeners (just, a moment, a bit) |
Just + verb / verb + for a moment |
Just have a seat for a moment. |
| Positive framing |
Be careful… / Remember to… |
Be careful not to touch that. |
| Let’s (inclusive) |
Let’s + base verb |
Let’s begin the meeting. |
| Question-style requests |
Could you / Would you + base verb, please? |
Could you send the file, please? |
Tone matters: A friendly voice and a smile make imperatives sound like requests, not orders.
Add please, just, for a moment, if you can to sound softer.
4) Quick Comparison
| Direct / Rude | Polite / Friendly |
|---|
| Shut the door. | Please close the door. |
| Give me your pen. | Could you lend me your pen, please? |
| Wait. | Just wait a moment, please. |
| Don’t talk. | Could you be quiet, please? |
5) Common Mistakes
- Using a subject: ❌ You open the book. → ✅ Open the book.
- Forgetting the negative: ❌ Touch that. (when you mean “don’t”) → ✅ Don’t touch that.
- Sounds too strong: ❌ Close the window. (to a teacher/stranger) → ✅ Please close the window.