imperativi

Imperativi, or the imperative mood, is a grammatical mood used to express commands, requests, instructions, or exhortations. It is typically directed at a second-person addressee, but many languages provide forms for inclusive “let us” or for polite forms addressing third parties. The imperative contrasts with the indicative, which states facts, and with other moods that express wishes or possibilities.

Formation and variation: The exact form of the imperative depends on the language. In English, it uses the base verb without a stated subject: Close the door. In other languages, there are separate endings or auxiliary constructions for different persons, numbers, and levels of politeness. In some languages, affirmative imperatives attach pronouns and other clitics to the verb; negative imperatives typically require a negative particle before the verb.

Usage and pragmatics: Imperatives are common in directions, instructions, orders, warnings, and requests. They can be softened through modal constructions or by using polite forms; the choice of form communicates social relations and tone. Some languages also have specialized forms for inclusive exhortations (let us) or for indirect or formal commands.

Examples (illustrative): English: Close the door. Italian informal: Chiudi la porta. Italian formal: Chiuda la porta. Italian plural: Chiudete la porta. Negative: Non chiudere la porta. In many languages, pronouns may attach to the verb in affirmative imperatives (dammi, give me) or precede the verb in negative structures (non la chiudere).