Unit 18: IMPERATIVE

The imperative is very simple. Just use the base form of the verb (Unit 14). We do not usually write or say the subject of an imperative sentence, but we understand it is 'you' (singular or plural).

Form

AFFIRMATIVE AND NEGATIVE EXAMPLES:

AFFIRMATIVE:
Come here!
Be quiet!
Move that pipe.

NEGATIVE:
Do not drive there.
Don't be so loud!
Do not forget the safety equipment.

Some uses

An imperative sentence means that we want someone to do, or not to do, something.

WRITTEN SIGNS AND NOTICES

EXAMPLES:
REDUCE SPEED NOW (a road sign)
KEEP OFF THE GRASS (in a park)
MUST WEAR HARD HATS (on a jobsite)
TURN OFF IGNITIONS (at a gas station)

INSTRUCTIONS

EXAMPLES:
Put key in ignition. Hold down choke.
Turn right at the traffic lights and then take the second turn on the left.

COMMANDS

EXAMPLE: Wake up! It's half past eight.

REMINDERS

EXAMPLE: Don't forget the meeting tomorrow.

FRIENDLY EXPRESSIONS

EXAMPLES:
Come in and sit down! [welcoming]
Have a seat! [offering]
Let's have a break now. [suggesting]
Don't worry! [sympathizing]

Be careful! [warning]
Have a good trip! [saying goodbye]
Take care of yourselves. [saying goodbye]
Have a nice weekend! [saying goodbye]

NOTICE: To be polite, add please to the end of the sentence:

EXAMPLES:
Wait a minute, please.
Fasten your seat belts, please.

NOTICE: To show that you want something very much, put do or please at the beginning of the sentence:

EXAMPLES:
Do show me!
Please tell me!
Do let's go!
Please be careful!

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Exercise 18.1