Grammar: Imperatives
A1 Lesson 8: Giving Commands and Requests
What are Imperatives?
An imperative sentence is used to give a command, an instruction, or make a request. They are very common in English for giving directions or orders.
Imperative sentences are special because they don't have a subject (like 'I', 'he', 'she'). The subject 'you' is always understood. For example, when a teacher says "Listen carefully," they mean "(You) listen carefully."
The Grammar Rule 📖
How to Form Imperatives
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Positive (+) | Base Verb + ... | Open your book. |
| Negative (-) | Don't + Base Verb + ... | Don't talk during the movie. |
| Polite | Add 'Please' | Please sit down. / Sit down, please. |
Giving Directions in Siem Reap
Imperatives are perfect for giving directions to tourists.
Tourist: Excuse me, how do I get to Pub Street?
You: It's easy. Go straight on this road.
You: Then, turn right at the next corner.
Tourist: Okay, turn right.
You: Yes. Don't cross the bridge. Pub Street is on the right.
Tourist: Thank you so much!
Practice Your Grammar 🎯
Exercise: Make the Sentences into Commands
Change the suggestion into a positive (+) or negative (-) command.
- (You should close the door.) → Close the door.
- (You should not be late.) → Don't be late.
- (You should wait for me.) → Wait for me.
- (You should not forget your phone.) → Don't forget your phone.
- (You should add 'please' to be polite.) → Please close the door.
Your Grammar Mission ⭐
Help a Tourist
Imagine a tourist in your town asks for help. Write three sentences using imperatives to give them instructions or advice.
Example: Take a tuk-tuk to Angkor Wat. Don't forget sunscreen. Please try the fish amok.
Key Vocabulary
- Imperative The form of a verb used for giving commands or instructions.
- Command An order that tells someone to do something.
- Request The act of politely asking for something.
- Base Verb The simplest form of a verb, with no special endings (e.g., go, eat, open).