Positive and negative imperatives
Use the base form of the verb (infinitive without "to"). No subject is needed — the subject is always "you" (understood). Add Don't before the verb to make it negative:
| Type | Structure | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Affirmative | Base verb | Open your book. · Come in! · Sit down. · Listen carefully. |
| Negative | Don't + base verb | Don't run! · Don't talk in class. · Don't close the door. · 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. Someone is running in the library. What do you say?
3. "______ be late for class!" (negative imperative)
4. Which sentence is correct?
5. What type of use is "Turn left at the traffic lights"?