A1 GrammarA1 Elementary

The imperative: Sit down! Don’t talk!

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The imperative: Grammar chart

Visual chart outlining the imperative form in English with examples of positive and negative commands and uses for offers, advice, instructions, orders, and warnings.

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Form

The form of the verb used for the imperative is the base form of the verb (=the infinitive without to). There is no subject.
The negative imperative is made with do not or don’t + infinitive (no subject).

Use

You can use the imperative to:

Give instructions

  • Open the package carefully.
  • Connect the cable to the plug.

Give orders

  • Fasten your seatbelt.
  • Stop talking!
  • Run!

Offer something or invite someone to something

  • Have some cookies.
  • Come and sit with us.

Give advice

  • Get some sleep.
  • Tell her how you feel.
  • Go and have fun.

Give warnings

  • Don’t touch that cable.
  • Please, Stop the car!

Let’s

Make suggestions

You can use the form let’s + verb or let’s not + verb to make suggestions.

(+) It’s very hot today. Let’s go to the swimming pool.
(-) Let’s not go out today. I’m very tired.

Ready to practice?

Put your knowledge to the test with interactive exercises (3 exercises available).