Imperative in English
1. When do we use the Imperative
Imperatives are used, for example, to order, ask, or to suggest and give advice as to what people should do.
- Look out!
- Please do not smoke here.
- Have some tea.
- Study more next time
2. The form of the Imperative
We use the infinitive to form the Imperative.
| Affirmative sentences | Negative sentences |
|---|---|
| Sit down. | Don’t sit there. |
| Tell him you are busy. | Don’t tell him anything. |
| Stop that! |
Don’t stop the music. |
Use the exclamation only when you want to add stress, e.g. Stop! Help!
3. The Imperative with let’s
We can use let’s ( let us ) to give orders or make suggestions to a group that includes the speaker
| Affirmative sentences | Negative sentences |
|---|---|
| Let’s go for a drink. | Let’s not waste any more time. |