Imperatives

We can use imperatives to give orders and instructions. Think of a cooking recipe or an airport guard or sign telling you how to proceed.

• Do not step on the grass.
• Remove your hats, shoes, belts and jackets.
• Be nice to your brother or sister.
• Add 2 pounds of flour
• Don’t forget your bag!

How to use them

The imperative is the same as the verb. We use the verb without the subjective pronoun (who are you talking to? ).

• Help your parents at home.
• Play quietly!

For a negative order or instruction, use don’t.

• Don’t run in the corridors.
• Don’t be late!

Use please and thank you to be more polite.

• Please put the plates on the table.
• Don’t make so much noise, please.