Imperatives
Definition
The imperative uses the base form of the verb to give instructions, requests, advice, warnings and invitations. The subject you is normally understood rather than stated.
Examples
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Turn left at the traffic lights.
The base verb gives an instruction.
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Please take a seat.
Please softens the request.
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Do not open that door.
A negative imperative uses do not / don’t + base verb.
Imperative vs. statement
You close the window every evening.
The sentence describes a regular action by an explicit subject.
Close the window, please.
The sentence asks the understood listener to act.
An imperative normally begins with the base verb and leaves the subject you unstated.
Let’s includes the speaker
Let’s + base verb makes a suggestion that includes both the speaker and the listener.
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Let’s meet outside the library.
The suggestion includes everyone in the conversation.
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Let’s not argue about it now.
The negative form places not after let’s.
Common mistakes
To turn left here.
Turn left here.
Use the base verb without to.
Don’t to touch the screen.
Don’t touch the screen.
After don’t, use the base verb directly.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence is a correctly formed instruction?
An imperative uses the base form: Press.Which negative imperative is correct?
The negative imperative uses don’t + base verb.Which sentence makes an inclusive suggestion?
Let’s + base verb makes a suggestion including the speaker.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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