Imperative in English
Exercises
This chapter will discuss the imperative in English. The imperative is used to give orders and instructions or to make a suggestion.
Lesson Outline
HideDefinition and usage of the English imperatives
Imperatives in English can be used to give an instruction or to request something or to make a suggestion.
| Situation | Example |
|---|---|
| To give an instruction |
|
| To give out orders |
|
| To request something |
|
| To make a suggestion. |
|
Keep in mind:
- To use the imperative form to request something, just simply add 'please' first.
- To use the imperative to make a suggestions, add 'let's' or 'let's not' to the beginning of the sentence.
How to form the imperative
In the English language there are two forms of imperative: affirmative and negative. Take a look at the tabel below to see the difference.
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| Affirmative |
|
| Negative |
|
The imperative form is usually aimed at 'you', singular or plural. However, the personal pronoun is not mentioned in the sentence.
Affirmative form of the imperative
The affirmative form of the imperative is formed with the infinitive of the verb.
Examples:
- Shut up!
- Listen to me!
- Never drive without a seatbelt!
'Always' and 'never' should be before the infinitive verb. These adverbs are used to emphasize the advice.
Construct the negative form of the imperative
The negative form of the imperative is formed with 'do not + infinitive'.
Examples:
- Do not smoke!
- Do not touch it!
- Do not forget to walk the dog!
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