Imperative Sentence: Meaning, Types, Examples & Exercise

What Are Imperative Sentences?

Imperative sentences are essential English sentence structures that have a particular communication function. The definition of imperative sentence states that statements that convey instructions, request something, or issue a command are known as imperative sentences. They are used to convey a necessary course of action. Although they can sometimes end with an exclamation mark, imperative phrases generally end with a period. Moreover, they are never interrogative sentences because they always conclude with a period or an exclamation point. Further, because they give instructions to the person being addressed, these sentences are frequently called directives. The verb is always in the base form with no inflexion, and they normally lack a subject. Since they are always in the second person, the speaker speaks directly to the audience.

Types of Imperative Sentences

The imperative sentences can further be divided into three types based on the situation in which they are being used. The following are the three types of imperative sentences in the English language:

1. Affirmative

Affirmative imperatives give instructions on what to do. They are created to be straightforward and precise so that the person is aware of the specific question being posed. They convey a clear order or directive to take action. In daily life, positive imperatives are often used to give specific instructions, motivate action, or promote productive behaviour.

For example:

• Eat your vegetables.
• Please take a seat.

2. Negative

Sentences with negative imperatives tell a person not to do something. Usually, they start with "do not" or "don't" and then the verb's base form. Negative imperative statements are used in a wide range of places, including technical writing, navigational instructions, and clearly showing expectations.

For example:

• Do not touch the hot stove.
• Do not enter the restricted area.

3. Conditional

Different types of conditionals, such as the first conditional, are used to talk about possible future situations and outcomes. These structures help form expressions that reflect likely events and their consequences. The present simple is used in the 'If' clause and the future simple in the main clause of a first conditional phrase. To provide instructions or advice in the main phrase, however, imperative verbs or modal auxiliaries like "can" and "should" can also be used. "If" clauses and other conditional words are frequently used in these statements.

For example:

• Should you need assistance, press the red button.
• If it rains, take an umbrella.

These are the types of imperative sentences that are used in English grammar. Let's learn their structure now.

Structure of an Imperative Sentence

An imperative sentence structure usually consists of a verb placed at the start of the sentence, often without a subject, as the subject is implied to be "you." The verb is also in its base form, followed by an object and modifiers if needed.

In the case of positive or affirmative imperative sentences, we generally use the formula.

• Verb + noun or adjective
• Tell (verb) + me (noun) + the truth.

Moreover, for negative imperative sentences, the following imperative sentence structure is used:

• Auxiliary verb (to do) + negative auxiliary (not) + verb + noun or adjective
• Do (Auxiliary verb) + not + wash (verb) + in the washing machine. (noun)

Also, in imperative sentences, voice change is possible, but the formula changes a bit as follows:

• Let + object + be + past participle
• Let + the kids (object) + be + loved. (past participle)

Now, let's see how we can use these sentences to improve our English skills.

Uses of Imperative Sentences in Grammar

It is crucial to know how to use a particular type of sentence in English. Hence, the following are the situations where imperative sentences can be used:

Imperative statements are used in the following basic contexts:

• We can use imperative expressions with "please" to make a request. You can consider this a more polite command. For instance, "Pass the salt, please."
• We can use imperative sentence in English without the word "please" to give an order. Take "Pass the salt" as an example.
• You can also use imperative sentences to offer a proposal or invitation. For instance, "Let's take a stroll."
• Imperatives work well to ensure clarity and urgency when warnings or bans are issued. For example, "Be careful of the dog!"
• You can use an imperative sentence with an exclamation mark to convey an exclamation. For example, "Be careful!"
• Imperatives are frequently used to provide guidance or instructions. Thus, these sentences are crucial in manuals, recipes, and in directing others. For instance, "Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees."
• Additionally, imperative sentences can be used to make invitations more warm and inviting. For instance, "Come to dinner with us."

Let's now see how we can use imperatives in sentences.

Examples of Imperative Sentences in English

Examples can help you better understand the concept and structure of a sentence. Hence, the following are some examples of imperative sentences for you to explore:

• Bring me a glass of water.
• Remember me when we are parted.
• Don’t rush, or you will fall.
• Read a lot to improve your writing skills.
• Never forget the person who loves you.
• Take a step, and don’t move.
• Don’t ever touch my phone.
• Give me a pen and a pencil.
• Don’t stay out at night.
• Play with intensity and courage.
• Have a cup of cappuccino.
• You wash your hands first and then eat.
• Don’t be excited about everything without reason.
• Write whenever you get a chance.
• Please open the door quickly.

These are just a few examples of imperative sentences that you can go through. Next are some tips for using these sentences in a daily context.

Tips to Learn and Use Imperative Sentences

The following are some pointers that can come in handy when you are new to the domain of the imperatives. They will help you learn how to use these sentences effectively.

• Make sure your sentences are concise and direct while instructing someone.
• Use a clear and straightforward verb when you're instructing someone.
• When providing directions or commands, imperative sentences are suitable. However, you should not use imperative sentences when asking questions or making demands.
• Add a subject to your imperative sentence to make it sound more polite.
• Ensure that your imperative statement is clear. This way, the person you are speaking to will comprehend what you are asking of them.
• Excessive use of imperative sentences in English can give the impression that you are bossing the listener. Therefore, only use them when essential.
• Using imperative sentences is considered to be rude in some cultures. In other cases, it's totally fine. Therefore, be aware of these differences and adjust your imperative use suitably.
• In general, affirmative commands, such as Sit down, are preferable to negative ones, like "Don't stand up."

Practice Exercises on Imperative Sentences with Answers

If you want to test how much you have understood, an imperative sentence exercise can be a good way for you to do so. Moreover, it will enforce your learning and help you assess your performance. Thus, here is a sample practice exercise that you can undertake.

In this imperative sentence exercise, you’ll complete the sentences using imperative verbs. These statements usually start with a verb, directly telling someone what to do.

Fill in the blanks with the correct verb form.

1. _______ the door when you leave.
2. _______ your homework before going to bed.
3. _______ me with the dishes, please.
4. _______ the book on the shelf.
5. _______ the lights when you exit the room.
6. _______ quietly when the teacher is talking.
7. _______ the cake for 30 minutes.
8. _______ your hand if you have a question.
9. _______ down and relax.
10. _______ me your pen for a moment.

Answers

1. Close
2. Finish
3. Help
4. Put
5. Turn off
6. Listen
7. Bake
8. Raise
9. Sit
10. Lend

Conclusion

To sum up, these are the types of imperative sentence and their examples, along with the tips for using them in the English language. Other than that, if you want to know more about the other daily use English sentences, you can seek expert guidance at Gradding. Here, you will get tutors who are always ready to support and guide their students. In addition, they can also help with every aspect of language skills, such as paragraph writing, reading, listening, etc. So, do not miss your chance to enrol.

FAQs

1. Give some examples of imperative sentences.

The following are some examples of imperative sentences in English:

• Don’t ever call me a loser.
• After the timer dings, take the cookies out of the oven.
• Please forgive my meticulousness, but you have spelt it wrong.
• Watch your step before taking it.

2. How do you make a sentence imperative?

If you wish to form an imperative sentence, then you need to first start the sentence with a base form of the verb. You also need to omit the subject as it is already implied.

3. What are the uses of imperative sentences?

The uses of an imperative sentence are as follows:

• To make a request
• To give a command
• To lend an invitation
• To give an instruction
• Offer advice

4. What are imperative verbs?

Imperative verbs are action words that are used to make a request, give a command or provide instruction. Some of these words include Stop, Listen, Read, etc.