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
Be quiet!
Heat the milk.
NEGATIVE:
Do not feed the animals.
Don't be angry!
Do not overheat.
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)
DO NOT LEAN OUT OF THE WINDOW (on a train)
FASTEN SEAT BELTS (on a plane)
INSTRUCTIONS
EXAMPLES:
Bake for thirty minutes. Do not overcook.
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 book 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]
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!
