Imperatives

Imperatives are verb forms or constructions used to issue commands, requests, instructions, or exhortations. They constitute a mood found in many languages, distinct from declarative or interrogative forms. Imperatives often have a direct, action-oriented force and may vary in form to convey politeness, formality, or intensity. In many languages, the imperative can express prohibition, invitation, or encouragement as well as simple orders.

In English, the imperative typically uses the base form of the verb with an implicit second-person subject, usually you. Examples include “Close the door,” “Be quiet,” and “Sit down.” The subject is generally omitted unless emphasis or clarity is needed. Negation is formed with do-support, as in “Don’t forget your keys.” Emphasis can be added with “Do,” as in “Do come in.” The imperative also yields constructions such as “Let us” or “Let them,” which express exhortation or permission rather than a direct command, e.g., “Let us begin,” or “Let him speak.” Politeness is often achieved with Please or a softening context.

Cross-linguistically, imperatives show a wider range of forms, including distinct second-person singular and plural forms, formal and informal registers, and sometimes inclusive versus exclusive forms in collective commands. Some languages provide dedicated negative imperative constructions, while others use the same form with a negative particle or auxiliary verb. In certain languages, the imperative interacts with aspect, mood, or mood-like constructions (for example, jussive or hortatory speech), reflecting nuanced speaker intention.

Overall, the imperative is a functional mood centered on directing an interlocutor’s actions, with varied realizations across languages and registers.