Positive imperatives
Use the base form of the verb (infinitive without "to"). No subject is needed — the subject is always "you" (understood):
| Form | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Base verb | Open your book. | You open your book. |
| Base verb | Come in! | You come in. |
| Base verb | Sit down. | You sit down. |
| Base verb | Listen carefully. | You listen carefully. |
Negative imperatives: Don't + verb
Add Don't before the verb:
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| Don't + base verb | Don't run! |
| Don't + base verb | Don't talk in class. |
| Don't + base verb | Don't close the door. |
| Don't + base verb | Don't be late! |
Don't be vs Don't have:
"Don't be" is the imperative of "to be": Don't be nervous!. We say Don't be, NOT Don't are or Be not.
Adding please
Please makes an imperative polite. It can go at the start or end:
| Position | Example |
|---|---|
| At the start | Please sit down. / Please be quiet. |
| At the end | Sit down, please. / Open the door, please. |
Common uses
| Use | Examples |
|---|---|
| Instructions | Read the question. Answer in English. Turn the page. |
| Directions | Turn left. Go straight. Cross the bridge. |
| Warnings | Be careful! Watch out! Don't touch that! |
| Invitations / offers | Come in! Have a seat! Help yourself! |
| Signs / rules | No smoking. Do not enter. Keep off the grass. |
No subject needed:
Never say "You come in!" as a command — just "Come in!". The subject "you" is always implied in imperatives.
Exercise
1. Which is the correct positive imperative?
2. How do you say "No corras" in English?
3. "______ be late for class!" (negative imperative)
4. Which sentence is correct?
5. What type of use is "Turn left at the traffic lights"?