IMPERATIVES – How to give commands in English

Summary

This video lesson explains the concept of imperatives in English, which are direct commands or instructions. It covers their basic structure (base verb form without 'to'), and how they are typically used in the second person ('you'). The lesson also highlights ways to soften imperatives using words like 'please' and 'let's' to make them more polite. Examples show how placing 'please' at the beginning or end can adjust the tone, while 'let's' allows for inclusive suggestions. Overall, the lesson aims to teach students how to give clear yet respectful commands in English.

Takeaways

• 😀 Imperatives are direct commands or instructions, such as 'Sit down' or 'Shut up'.
• 😀 The verb in an imperative is in its base form, without the particle 'to' (e.g., 'Sit', not 'to sit').
• 😀 Imperatives are typically addressed to the second person ('you'), and are not usually used with modals, except in rare cases like 'be able to'.
• 😀 Adding 'please' at the beginning of an imperative makes it more polite (e.g., 'Please sit down').
• 😀 Placing 'please' at the end of an imperative makes the command stronger but still polite (e.g., 'Sit down, please').
• 😀 'Let's' is used to include the speaker and listener in the action, making the imperative more of a suggestion (e.g., 'Let's go to dinner').
• 😀 'Let's' can also be used to direct an imperative at someone else politely, even though the speaker isn't part of the action (e.g., 'Let's be quiet').
• 😀 Imperatives without 'please' can sound rude or too strong, especially when used without consideration for politeness.
• 😀 In English, the second person imperative is implied even when it’s not explicitly stated, such as 'Sit down!' meaning 'You sit down.'
• 😀 When using imperatives, it's important to balance clarity with politeness, depending on the relationship with the listener and the desired tone.

Q & A

What is an imperative in English grammar?

An imperative is a grammatical structure used to issue a command or instruction. It tells someone to do something directly, e.g., 'Sit down.'

How is an imperative formed in English?

An imperative is formed using the base form of the verb without 'to.' For example, 'Sit,' 'Shut up,' 'Get out.'

Who is the subject of an imperative sentence?

The subject of an imperative sentence is always implied as 'you.' The verb is directed at the second person, but 'you' is not usually stated explicitly.

Why are imperatives considered strong commands?

Imperatives are strong because they give direct orders without asking or suggesting. The speaker expects the listener to carry out the action immediately.

What is the role of 'please' in modifying an imperative?

'Please' is used to soften the imperative and make it more polite. Placing 'please' at the beginning or end of a command makes it sound less harsh, e.g., 'Please sit down' vs. 'Sit down, please.'

How can 'please' change the tone of an imperative?

'Please' makes the command more polite, though still a request or instruction. Placing 'please' at the start of the sentence is generally more polite, while placing it at the end maintains some directness.

What is the difference between using 'please' at the start or end of an imperative?

When 'please' is placed at the beginning, it makes the imperative sound more polite and less direct. When 'please' is placed at the end, the command is still strong but softened slightly, making it a more balanced request.

What does the use of 'let’s' in an imperative imply?

'Let’s' (short for 'let us') is used to include the speaker in the action, making the imperative more of a suggestion than a direct order. It suggests that the speaker and listener should do something together, e.g., 'Let’s go to dinner.'

How can 'let’s' be used to direct a command toward someone else?

'Let’s' can sometimes be used to imply that the listener should take action, even though the speaker includes themselves in the statement. For example, 'Let’s be quiet,' when the speaker does not intend to join in the action but is directing it at the listener.

What is the rare exception where imperatives can use modals?

The rare exception is when 'be able to' is used in an imperative, such as 'Be able to complete 100 pushups by tomorrow.' This is a form of directive, though modals are generally not used in imperatives.

How can imperatives be perceived in different cultural contexts?

In many cultures, imperatives can be seen as rude or overly direct, especially when they are not softened. English allows some flexibility with modifiers like 'please' or 'let’s,' but in other languages, there are often specific forms of politeness that change the way commands are given.

What’s the overall takeaway about using imperatives in English?

Imperatives are effective for giving direct commands, but to avoid sounding rude, it's important to modify them with politeness markers like 'please' or 'let’s.' This allows for clear communication while maintaining respect and courtesy.