The imperative mood gives commands, makes requests, and offers quick advice. It changes shape depending on whether you address someone informally, formally, or in a group.
Formation
Form the imperative by using specific command forms that match the addressee: du, ihr, Sie, or wir. Negative commands put nicht after the verb or use kein when cancelling something.
Du Form
Use the stem for du commands and drop -st; add an ending back only if needed for clarity or sound. Shortening makes speech quicker and more natural.
Ihr Form
The ihr command uses the normal ihr form of the verb, making group orders easy and clear. Add nicht or kein for negatives.
Sie Form
The Sie form keeps Sie and verb in the infinitive position—this polite version works for strangers and formal situations. Place nicht or kein accordingly.
Wir Form
Use wir + infinitive to suggest actions for the group, turning commands into inclusive plans. Useful for teamwork and polite prompts.
Come soon!
Modal Verbs
Modal verbs soften commands when used in the infinitive with Sie or wir, making requests more courteous. They appear at the end in polite forms.
Reflexive Verbs
Reflexive verbs keep their pronouns in commands: du gets dich, ihr gets euch, and Sie/wir keep sich. Placement follows the usual imperative order.
Signal Words
Signal words like bitte make commands polite, while time markers can specify when to act. Phrases such as nicht vergessen highlight important negatives.
Summary
The imperative shapes quick orders and polite requests through forms for du, ihr, Sie, and wir. Learn each pattern and practice common verbs to command naturally in German.
Last updated: Fri Oct 24, 2025