BeginnerGrammar Structures
Learn Imperatives (Commands) in English
Give commands, instructions, directions, and requests.
- Learning goal
- Recognize and use this pattern in context.
- Practice
- 10 randomized questions with explanations.
- Suggested workflow
- Study the examples, then take the quiz.
Grammar Focus
Imperatives are verb forms used to give commands, instructions, directions, and requests. They are one of the most practical and direct structures in English, and you use them every single day — from reading a recipe to following road signs to asking a friend for help.
- The imperative uses the base form of the verb — no subject, no conjugation: "Sit down," "Open the window."
- To make an imperative negative, add don't before the base verb: "Don't touch that," "Don't run."
- To make an imperative more polite, add please at the beginning or end: "Please wait here," "Close the door, please."
- Although there is no visible subject, the subject of every imperative is always 'you' — either singular or plural.
- Imperatives can also include 'let's' to suggest a joint action: "Let's go!" "Let's have lunch."
Form & Structure
Affirmative Imperatives
Base verb (+ object/complement) — no subject
Open the door, please.
Sit down and relax.
Turn left at the traffic lights.
Negative Imperatives
Don't + base verb
Don't forget your passport.
Don't speak during the exam.
Don't touch the wet paint.
Polite Requests
Please + base verb | base verb + please
Please wait outside.
Come in, please.
Please don't make noise in the library.
Common Mistakes
Adding a subject to the imperative
You sit down.
Sit down.
Tip: Imperatives never include a subject. The subject 'you' is always implied. Drop it and use just the base verb.
Using 'not' instead of 'don't' for negatives
Not open the window.
Don't open the window.
Tip: Negative imperatives always use 'don't' (do not) before the base verb — never use 'not' alone.
Using the wrong verb form (adding -s or -ing)
Opens the window. / Opening the door now.
Open the window.
Tip: Imperatives always use the base form of the verb — no -s, no -ing, no past tense. Just the plain verb.
Why This Grammar Matters
Giving directions
“Turn right at the corner.”
“Go straight ahead and cross the bridge.”
“Don't take the motorway — it's very busy.”
Giving instructions or explaining a process
“Mix the flour and eggs together.”
“Press the power button to start.”
“Don't add too much salt.”
Making polite requests
“Please pass the salt.”
“Have a seat, please.”
“Please don't park in front of the gate.”
Warning or telling someone not to do something
“Don't touch that wire!”
“Watch out!”
“Be careful on the stairs.”