French grammar: impératif (formes de base)

What this grammar point covers

The French imperative (impératif) is a verb form used to give orders, advice, or instructions.

When to use it

Use the imperative in French to tell someone what to do, to give advice, to make suggestions, or to give instructions.

Key forms

• Use only three forms: tu, nous, and vous (no subject pronoun).
• Example: Parle ! (tu), Parlons ! (nous), Parlez ! (vous)

Examples

Tips

• Do not use subject pronouns (tu, nous, vous) with the imperative.
• For -er verbs in the 'tu' form, drop the final -s: Parle ! (not *parles*).
• The imperative can be used to make polite requests (with 'vous').

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs are irregular in the imperative, like être, avoir, savoir, and vouloir.
• With 'tu' and -er verbs, add back the -s if the next word is 'y' or 'en': Mange-y !