The Imperative
Affirmative: Base verb (without subject)
- Open the door.
- Sit down, please.
- Listen carefully.
- Be quiet!
Negative: Don't + base verb
- Don't open the door.
- Don't sit there.
- Don't be late!
- Don't worry!
Let's + base verb (group suggestions)
- Let's go to the cinema.
- Let's eat pizza.
- Let's not argue.
Uses
| Use | Example |
|---|---|
| Commands | Stop! / Be quiet! |
| Instructions | Turn left. Open the book. |
| Advice/Warnings | Be careful! / Don't touch that! |
| Invitations | Come in! / Have a seat! |
| Requests (+ please) | Close the window, please. |
| Suggestions (let's) | Let's go! / Let's try again! |
💡 The imperative does NOT have a visible subject. "You" is implied. "Please" makes it more polite: Please sit down. / Sit down, please.