Welcome! Imperatives are some of the most common and important sentences in English. They are used to give commands, instructions, or warnings.
Whether you are directing a driver or warning a guest about a slippery step, knowing how to use imperatives correctly will make your communication fast, clear, and safe.
warning Common Mistake
In English, imperative sentences do not need a subject. Don't say "You stop!" Just say "Stop!" To make it sound polite and friendly, always add the word "Please."
Interactive Vocabulary
Action
Stop
To cease moving or doing something. An essential command for transport.
Example: Stop here, please.
Action
Look
To direct your eyes in order to see something specific.
Example: Look at those beautiful carvings on the wall!
Action
Listen
To give one's attention to a sound or someone speaking.
Example: Please listen carefully to the guide's safety instructions.
Action
Wait
To stay where one is or delay action until a particular time.
Example: Wait a minute, I need to find my ticket.
Phrase
Come here
A command telling someone to move towards the person speaking.
Example: Come here and try this food.
Phrase
Be careful
Act with care to avoid danger or harm. A vital safety instruction.
Example: Be careful! The steps are very steep.
Knowledge Check
directions_bus Riding a Tuk-Tuk
You want the driver to halt at the market. What do you say?
(Hint: You want the vehicle to cease moving.)
warning Warning a Tourist
A guest is walking near a slippery edge. What is the best imperative to use?
(Hint: You want them to act with care to avoid danger.)
visibility Showing a Monument
You want your tour group to see the famous cave. What do you say?
(Hint: You want them to direct their eyes.)
workspace_premium
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Study Resources
Lesson Summary & Review
Let's review the key concepts covered in the interactive module above to ensure you are ready to give clear instructions.
Forming an Imperative
An imperative sentence starts directly with the base form of the verb. It does not use a subject like "you" or "I."
- Stop: To cease moving or doing something.
- Look: To direct your eyes in order to see.
- Listen: To give attention to a sound.
Being Polite
Because imperatives are direct commands, they can sometimes sound rude or angry in English. To make an imperative polite, always add the word "please".
Example: "Wait here, please."
