Explanations » A1 Grammar Explanations » The imperative – Sit down! Don’t talk!
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  • The imperative – Grammar chart

    Visual chart outlining the imperative form in English with examples of positive and negative commands and uses for offers, advice, instructions, orders, and warnings.

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    Form

    The form of the verb used for the imperative is the base form of the verb (=the infinitive without to). There is no subject.
    The negative imperative is made with do not or don’t + infinitive (no subject).

    Use

    You can use the imperative to:

    Give instructions

    • Open the package carefully.
    • Connect the cable to the plug.

    Give orders

    • Fasten your seatbelt.
    • Stop talking!
    • Run!

    Offer something or invite someone to something

    • Have some cookies.
    • Come and sit with us.

    Give advice

    • Get some sleep.
    • Tell her how you feel.
    • Go and have fun.

    Give warnings

    • Don’t touch that cable.
    • Please, Stop the car!

     

    Let’s

    Make suggestions

    You can use the form let’s + verb or let’s not + verb to make suggestions.

    (+) It’s very hot today. Let’s go to the swimming pool.
    (-) Let’s not go out today. I’m very tired.

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