Language
English
Level
A2
Unit
Modal verbs and imperatives
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

Imperatives are sentences used to give orders, instructions, advice, or requests. In English, they usually start with the base form of a verb.

When to use it

Use imperatives in English to tell someone what to do, to give instructions, to make requests, or to give advice.

Key forms

  • Use the base form of the verb: 'Open the door.'
  • To make it negative, use 'Don't' + base verb: 'Don't run.'

Examples

Sit down.

Please be quiet.

Don't touch that.

Turn off the light.

Tips

  • Imperatives do not use a subject (no 'you').
  • Add 'please' to make the imperative more polite.
  • Use 'Don't' at the beginning to make a negative imperative.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • For strong advice or warnings, sometimes 'never' is used: 'Never give up.'

Keep exploring

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