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Imperative

1 min
A1
CEFR A1·other

Formula

(Stop! Look! Sit down.)
Don't
(Don't run! Don't worry.)
Let's
(Let's go! Let's try.)

Examples

Positive
Open the door, please.
Negative
Don't touch that! Don't be late.
Question
— (imperatives are commands, not questions)

Usage

  • •Give orders, commands, or instructions
  • •Make requests, offers, or invitations (often with "please")
  • •Give warnings or advice

More Examples

  • Please pass the salt.

    Polite request with "please"

  • Don't forget your keys.

    Warning / reminder

  • Let's have lunch together.

    Suggestion / invitation (we = us)

  • Turn left at the corner.

    Direction / instruction

  • Be careful on the stairs.

    Imperative of "to be" — use "Be"

Common Mistakes

  • ✗Adding subject "you": "You stop!" — usually just "Stop!" (subject is implied).
  • ✗Using -s ending: "Stops!" should be just "Stop!".
  • ✗Wrong negative: "No run!" should be "Don't run!".

Tips

  • ✓Soften commands with "please" before or after: "Please sit down." / "Sit down, please."
  • ✓"Let's" = "let us" — include yourself in the action (suggestion to do together).

Advanced Notes

The imperative uses the base verb form with no subject — the "you" is understood. Tone shifts dramatically with context: the same word "sit" can be a dog command, a polite invitation, or a rude dismissal depending on intonation and "please". In written instructions and recipes the imperative is standard and not impolite ("Add two eggs, stir well"). "Do + imperative" adds emphasis: "Do sit down" is warmer and more formal than plain "Sit down".

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Compare With

Present Simple(A1)Modal Verbs(B1)