Imperative Mood for beginners

If you're wondering what the word 'imperative' means, in grammar, imperatives are verbs that are used to tell somebody what to do or not to do.

"Imperative Mood" in English Grammar

What Is Imperative Mood?

The 'imperative mood' is a verb form that is used to give orders or make people do something. Take a look at these examples:

I go to my room. → Go to your room!

He needs to start. → Start!

We should respect our mother. → Respect your mother!

Structure

The imperative mood is formed by using the base form of the main verb at the beginning of the sentence. They are usually ended with an exclamation mark. But it is possible to end it with a full stop. Look at the examples:

Finish your meal!

Speak to your doctor!

Bring the keys, please!

a sentence in the imperative mood

Tip!

Even one single main verb can be an imperative mood. Check out the examples:

Go!

Start!

Please

To make a polite order, you can use the term 'please' at the end of the sentence. A 'comma' is required before the word 'please.' Check out the examples:

Close the door, please!

Shave your beard, please!

Read the text, please!

Negative Imperative

To make negative orders, or in other words, to make somebody not do something, all you have to do is to place 'do not' (or don't) at the beginning of a sentence. Here are some examples:

Don't touch my hair!

Don't show me the cat!

Do not drink water in the class!

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