The imperative mood is used to express direct commands, requests, instructions, or advice. It is unique among verb moods because it often omits the subject, implying "you" as the person being addressed.
- Used for commands, requests, instructions, and advice.
- The subject "you" is usually implied and not stated.
- Can be affirmative (do something) or negative (don't do something).
The imperative mood is used to express commands, requests, instructions, or advice.
Affirmative Commands
Affirmative commands use the verb's base form.
Affirmative commands tell someone to do something. The verb is in its base form, and the subject "you" is implied.
- Use the verb's base form: "Stop," "Listen," "Go."
- The subject "you" is not spoken: (You) "Close the door."
- Can be singular or plural: "Eat," "Eat all of you."
Examples:
- "Write your name."
- "Turn off the lights."
- "Be careful."
Use the base form of the verb for affirmative commands.
Yes, the same form is used for both singular and plural audiences.
Affirmative commands include 'Read the book.' and 'Open your notebook.'
Negative Commands
Negative commands use 'Do not' or 'Don't' before the base verb.
Negative commands (prohibitions) tell someone not to do something. Use "Do not" or "Don't" before the verb's base form.
- Use "Do not" / "Don't" + base verb: "Don't run," "Don't eat that."
- Can be used for singular or plural: "Don't be late," "Don't make noise."
Examples:
- "Don't touch that."
- "Don't forget your keys."
- "Don't speak during the test."
Correct forms include 'Don't shout.' and 'Do not leave.'
Subject in Imperative
The subject of imperative sentences is usually you, but it is implied rather than spoken. This applies to both positive and negative commands.
- The implied subject is "you": (You) "Sit down."
- For emphasis or clarity, "You" can sometimes be used: "You, be quiet!"
- For others, the subject may be stated: "Let him go."
The implied subject is 'You'.
Yes, for emphasis, 'you' can be explicitly stated.
Politeness and Variations
To make commands more polite, you can use "please," or phrase the imperative as a suggestion.
- Add "please" for politeness: "Close the door, please."
- Use softening phrases: "Pass me the salt," or "Do pass me the salt."
- Suggestive form (less direct): "Take a seat," "Consider this idea."
Use 'please', a softer tone, or phrase as a suggestion.
Conclusion
The imperative mood is essential for giving direct instructions and can be adjusted for tone and context.
- Imperatives use the base verb for affirmative commands, and add "don't" for negatives.
- The subject "you" is always implied.
- Politeness can be added with "please" or softened phrasing.