What is a imperative word

Imperative can be one of the following: An adjective meaning “completely necessary” or “very important,” but also “commanding.” A noun meaning “a necessity” or “something that is not avoidable,” but also “a command.” In grammar, imperative is also one of the four main verb moods.

How do you write imperative words?

You can use the imperative form to give an order, to give a warning or advice, and (if you use “please”) to make a request. To make the imperative, use the infinitive of the verb without ‘to’: “Come here!” “Sit down!”

What is imperative in a sentence?

An imperative sentence is a sentence that expresses a direct command, request, invitations, warning, or instruction. Imperative sentences do not have a subject; instead, a directive is given to an implied second person.

What is declarative sentence example?

A declarative sentence is a sentence that makes a statement. For example: I am an expert in French cheeses.

What is an example of imperative mood?

Imperative mood meaning: When forming a request or command, a sentence is written in the imperative mood. Imperative Mood Examples: Lindsey, please go clean your room. After you have cleaned your room, take the trash out to the garage.

Which is an imperative sentence?

What are the 10 types of imperative sentences?

Types of Imperative Sentences A request. : Pack enough clothing for the cruise. An invitation. : Come by at 8, please. A command. : Raise your hands and turn around. An instruction. : Turn left at the intersection. Imperative sentences can be confused with other kinds of sentences.

What are the five examples of imperative?

In the examples of imperative sentences here, you’ll note that each line is issuing a command of some sort: Pass the salt. Move out of my way! Shut the front door. Find my leather jacket. Be there at five. Clean your room. Complete these by tomorrow. Consider the red dress. Wait for me. Get out!

What is list of the imperative verbs?

– All the imperative verbs in a sentence command other people to do something. They are also called as “Bossy Verbs”. – In the present simple form, the imperative verbs come at the beginning of the imperative sentence. – Most of the imperative verbs can also be paired with different words such as “Don’t” with the same use of verb.

What are some imperative examples?

The definition of imperative is something that has authority or is absolutely necessary. An example of imperative is the power that a government has over its people. An example of imperative is the power that a government has over its people. An example of imperative is the decision to give a cesarean in a breach birth.

What is an imperative word?

An imperative verb is an action word that gives a command. We use imperative verbs in sentences in which you tell someone what to do. If you seem bossy when you read a sentence, it often has an imperative verb in it!

What is a example of a declarative sentence?

A simple declarative sentence has a simple sentence structure, consisting of a subject and a predicate. Examples of declarative sentences in the simple form include: My dog is sick. It is a nice day.

What are five declarative sentences?

Some basic declarative sentence examples are:

• He runs.
• She sings.
• I like climbing.
• Fran is sad.
• My cat is black.
• Dogs are cute.
• He is eight years old.
• The sky is blue.

What are types of sentence?

There are four basic types of sentences that we use for different purposes:

• Declarative Sentences.
• Interrogative Sentences.
• Imperative Sentences.
• Exclamatory Sentences.

How do you end a declarative sentence?

You have three options for punctuating the end of a sentence: a period, an exclamation mark, or a question mark. Each one sets a different tone for the whole sentence: that of a statement, an outcry, or a question, respectively. A period marks the end of a declarative sentence: a statement of fact.

Does Grammarly correct punctuation?

Grammarly is more than a grammar check, more than a spell check, and more than a punctuation corrector. With Grammarly, you’ll build writing skills while you’re correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes as well as sentence structure problems, misused words, typos, and more.

Can Grammarly paraphrase?

Yes, Grammarly the number one spell and grammar correction tool could paraphrase and not only find the errors in your writings, articles, reports, research, and text. It would give you a better way to put your words in better order or way!

What is the most common punctuation?

The most common punctuation marks in English are: capital letters and full stops, question marks, commas, colons and semi-colons, exclamation marks and quotation marks. In speaking, we use pauses and the pitch of the voice to make what we say clear. Punctuation plays a similar role in writing, making it easier to read.

What are the three most common punctuation marks?

End Punctuation. There are three common punctuation marks that come at the end of a sentence: the period ( . ), the question mark ( ? ), and the exclamation point ( ! ). A sentence is always followed by a single space, no matter what the concluding punctuation is.

How do you fix punctuation?

Top ten punctuation tips

1. Use apostrophes correctly.
2. Know where to place quotation marks.
3. Know how to punctuate with parentheses.
4. Use a hyphen for compound adjectives.
5. Distinguish between the colon and the semicolon.
6. Avoid multiple punctuation at the end of a sentence.

What does punctuation mean in English?

1 : the act of punctuating : the state of being punctuated. 2 : the act or practice of inserting standardized marks or signs in written matter to clarify the meaning and separate structural units also : a system of punctuation. 3 : something that contrasts or accentuates.

What is punctuation very short answer?

Punctuation is the use of symbols such as full stops or periods, commas, or question marks to divide written words into sentences and clauses. English Easy Learning GrammarParts of speechSentences are made up of words. A sentence can be made up of any number of words.

What are the types of punctuation?

The major punctuation marks are the period, comma, exclamation point, question mark, semicolon, and colon. These marks organize sentences and give them structure.

What is punctuation definition with example?

Punctuation are marks used in printing and writing to separate sentences and clauses and to help make the meaning of sentences more clear. Commas, periods and question marks are examples of punctuation. noun.

Where do we use punctuation?

Punctuation

1. Period [.] Use a period to show the end of a sentence.
2. Question Mark [?] Use a question mark at the end of a sentence to show a direct question.
3. Exclamation Mark [!]
4. Comma [,]
5. Apostrophe [‘]
6. Quotation Marks [“]
7. Colon [:]
8. Semicolon [;]

What are the rules in punctuation?

Commas Rule 1: Use commas to separate three or more items in a series. Rule 2: Use a comma to show a pause after an introductory word. Rule 3: Use a comma after two or more prepositional phrases at the beginning of a sentence. Rule 4: Use commas to set off words that interrupt the flow of thought in a sentence.

‘Imperative’ is a prevalent word in written and spoken English. But can you explain the concept of «imperative» from imperative definition to usage and everything around this word without hesitation? The truth is this is a question that many people have a hard time answering because the word can fit different scenarios.

In a nutshell, «imperative» is defined as «important or vital, to give commands; command, or urgent and essential.» These meanings give the word diverse applications in grammar and linguistics. You can use ‘imperative’ as a noun or adjective in instances that suit the word’s meaning.

In this article, we explore the meaning and usage of the word imperative. We’ll also provide some examples to see how imperative is used in context. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what an imperative is and how to use it properly!

What Is the Definition of Imperative?

As an adjective, ‘imperative’ most common definition is crucial, important, or essential; something of vital importance. Terms like all-important, necessary, and of essence also give the perfect imperative definition.

In sentences: «It is imperative that we attend the meeting.» «To top in your business school class, it’s imperative to pay attention to your professor’s demands.» These two sentences showcase the right usage of «imperative» to mean «of importance.»

In the first sentence, it shows that attending the meeting had some positive results that would not have been realized if ignored. In the second sentence, the student believes that one of the best ways to top the class is to do what the tutor wants; doing so is imperative.

Imperative Word Forms

You can derive an adverb and a noun from the word «imperative.» You’ve probably come across some of these words. They include:

Imperatively (adverb): This word is defined as «in an imperative manner» or «necessitating immediate action.» In other words, use this adjective if you need something to happen right now. Sentences in which «imperatively» is properly used:

• I imperatively needed a sandwich.
• The police officer imperatively demanded that the suspect get on the ground.
• Imperatively, we must not speak to anyone until we’ve got our bearings.

Imperativeness (noun): The word imperativeness means the quality of being important or urgent based on the context. Have a look at these example sentences:

• For the three years I have been studying English, our professors don’t stop reminding us about the imperativeness of grammar use in speech.»
• » Experts recommend that new couples must visit relationship counselors to understand the imperativeness of bonding for a strong union.»

What Is the Meaning of Imperative?

Imperative is also used to mean command: Demanding immediate attention, forceful, or commanding or expressing an order, instruction, or exhortation on something or situation.

These commands can be positive or negative (forcing or suggesting a command). However, in most cases, people use imperative to stress a forceful command. That’s why dictionaries include the meaning of imperative as «an order designed to be obeyed without question or delay.» Synonyms: binding, mandatory, compulsory.

Example sentences using that meaning include:

• The new manager signed imperative instructions upon his arrival, and that’s how the company lost key employees.
• Jake heard someone shouting imperative instructions from the far side of the terrace.

Imperative also means » an urgent and essential undertaking or situation.» In such instances, the word has some compassionate meaning. You can notice some positivity in its use. An excellent sentence to showcase is: «The United Nations believes that there’s an imperative need for greater understanding between all the nations across the continents.»

Imperative As a Noun vs. Adjective

In the above meanings, imperative can be used as a noun. That is, «as a command or order.» As mentioned earlier, when imperative is used as an adjective, it means expressing or giving a command or orders. Let’s see the main differences at the sentence level.

• «The captain gave an imperative for his crew to prepare for the incoming storm.» Imperative here is a noun.
• «The captain’s tone was imperative; we knew the storm was fast approaching.» The second sentence shows how to use imperative as an adjective.

Imperative in Linguistics and Grammar

The English language has three imperatives: First-person singular imperative»`Come here.’ » First-person singular present indicative command «`Don’t drop it!'» and the imperative of direct address «Mary Take out the garbage!»

These are commands. It’s how we tell people to do things around the house, at school, or any place. Commands usually begin with imperative verbs. They can also begin with imperatives (plural for a command).

In linguistics, an imperative is a grammatical mood used to give orders or requests. It is often called «the imperative mood.» The imperative mood is when a verb expresses an action.

Here are some examples of the imperative mood: «Let’s go, Chelsea!» «Go for it!» In the two sentences, «go» is an imperative verb. Imperative mood tells the listener to do something.

How to Use Imperative in a Sentence

Sentences commonly use the word imperative in its noun, adverb, or adjective forms to describe importance, instructions, demands, requests, or commands.

To use a word like imperative correctly, it is helpful to be aware of its meaning and function in context. Knowing how to use the word imperative will give you a more powerful grasp of your vocabulary.

«Imperative» is most often used in formal or academic writing. Either way, it is helpful to stick to the context to avoid confusion. You can also pair the word with additional adjectives to give more context about what it means. Here are some «imperative sentences» to help you understand what we mean better:

• «Calm down your voices.» The teacher said with an imperative tone.
• We should all practice using yoga. It’s an imperative way to stay healthy and strong.
• The World Health Organization has declared these items as imperatives for the refugee crisis.

10 Examples of Imperative in a Sentence

Ready to learn more? Here are 10 example sentences that include the word imperative.

1. Observing proper hygiene and health care is an imperative behavior of a responsible pet owner.
2. If you want your business to continue to thrive, you must follow the rules. This is your primary imperative.
3. The driver’s imperative tone of voice proves that the company deserves better workers.
4. «Don’t let the disease take my baby!» That was her mother’s final, imperative statement before she passed away from cancer.
5. Paul had an implicit understanding of his parents’ imperative for attending college.
6. In the US, teenagers have a sense of entitlement and think their parents’ imperatives are optional.
7. The first imperative you must learn as a volunteer firefighter is how to take direction from your commanding officer.
8. When going through airport security, the guards will issue an imperative to remind you not to bring any weapon in your luggage.
9. Our boss gave us an imperative order to make the deadline earlier than expected.
10. The government has declared public health imperatives that all citizens must follow.

How Do You Spell Imperative?

The word imperative is spelled with ten characters of different sounds. These characters include /i-m-p-e-r-a-t-i-v-e/. The spelling starts with a lower intonation and rises smoothly at the end.

Knowing the word’s right spelling is the first step to being a confident author or speaker. That’s why you need to know English phonics and articulate them correctly. In addition to phonics and sounds, make sure you can identify all the characters in a word correctly without a reference point.

How Do You Pronounce Imperative?

Imperative pronunciation varies based on the context you want to fit. Majority of people pronounce imperative as /im pɛrətiv /or /im-per-uh-tiv/ based on its syllables.

Note that the word sounds the same in both American and British contexts. According to Google, both languages produce a /uhm·peh·ruh·tuhv/ sound when pronouncing imperative. You can try listening to different audios to feel how to pronounce the word in different places.

How Many Syllables Are in Imperative?

There are four syllables in the word imperative.

Are you wondering how we’ve come up with this number? Divide the word according to the present vowels. You should come up with im-per-a-tive. During the spelling, you need to stress «per» syllable to get the right spelling and pronunciation.

Imperative Synonym

• Crucial
• Important
• Immediate
• Urgent

Imperative Antonym

• Optional
• Voluntary
• Inessential
• Unnecessary

History & Etymology of Imperative

The term imperative comes from the Latin word «imperare» meaning «Let it be done.» The Old French used the word as «imperatif.»The words are found in the oldest Latin translations of the Bible which Church Fathers made in the 3rd century. 

That explains why many sources indicate that the word ‘imperative’ was originally a legal term that describes the mood of verbs in Roman law.

In Latin, there were six inflectional forms to a verb, but only two for future tense. These two futures were the «future indicative» and «future imperative.» The latter form simply meant that you should do what is mentioned, without any further detail. In time, «imperative» became a term to describe commands or orders given by someone in authority.

When Was Imperative First Used?

The first use in grammar was in the 1520s.

Conclusion

If you’ve been misusing the word ‘imperative’ this whole time, you now know the appropriate imperative definition, meaning and usage in sentences from this article. We all know how important it is to use words correctly in our day-to-day lives.

Many people would argue that grammar isn’t essential to perfect your skills. But when texting, talking, or tweeting, not communicating right could be detrimental, especially if your audience is people who don’t speak English as their first language.

An imperative is one of the four main sentence functions in the English language and is most commonly used to give a command or instruction. Imperatives are sometimes referred to as a directive.

There are four main sentence functions in the English language. They are Declaratives (e.g. The cat is on the mat), Imperatives (e.g. Get the cat off the mat), Interrogatives (e.g. Where is the cat?), and Exclamatives (e.g. What a cute cat!).

An imperative sentence is formed using a base verb, such as stop, and usually has no subject. There is often no subject present in an imperative sentence because the subject is assumed to be you — the reader or the listener. Imperative sentences end in either a full stop (.) Or an exclamation mark (!), Depending on the urgency of the command.

To put it simply, an imperative tells you to do something.

Imperative examples

Let’s take a look at some common examples of imperative sentences. You’ll notice that some sentences are very short, even one-word sentences, whereas others are longer and more complex. You may also notice that some sentences create a sense of urgency, whereas others have used the word ‘please’ to show politeness.

Here are some imperative sentence examples:

Fig. 1 — Slow down is an example of an imperative.

How can I form an imperative?

As you can see from the imperative examples above, the typical form (structure) of an imperative sentence is a verb without a subject. These verbs are called imperative verbs or ‘bossy’ verbs and are always in the present tense. This means we use the base form of the verb, e.g. give, have, go, and stop, and not to give, to have, to go, and to stop.

Each sentence is missing a subject because the subject (you) is implied. Take a look at this sentence as an example ‘try the other door’. This sentence could also read ‘You should try the other door’. However, the subject is obvious and has therefore been removed from the sentence.

Imperatives with always, never, and ever

We can also use the words always, never, and ever when forming an imperative; they usually go before the verb in the sentence. These words are adverbs of frequency and can be used to add further information to an imperative.

Imperatives with do

We can add the word ‘do‘ to the beginning of our imperative sentences to make the command appear more polite.

What are the different types of imperative?

Command or request imperatives

The command is one of the most commonly used imperatives. A command directly requests that someone does something or stops doing something. You can turn your command into a polite request by adding the word ‘please’.

Command imperatives are most commonly used in everyday speech. You will likely hear your parents and teachers using these kinds of imperative! Although, if you take a look at all the different signs around you, I’m sure you will spot many command imperatives.

Instruction imperatives

An instruction imperative is similar to a command. However, a command is a direct order to do something, whereas an instruction gives information or knowledge the subject may want or need.

Instruction imperatives are frequently used in both written and spoken English. They are commonly found in user manuals, recipe books, and road signs.

Advice imperatives

We can also use imperatives when offering advice to people.

Advice imperatives are most commonly used in everyday speech. You will most likely use them when talking with your friends and family.

Invitation imperatives

This type of imperative extends an invitation to someone.

These imperatives are used regularly in everyday conversation. You will also see them on, you guessed it, invitations!

Wish imperatives

Wish imperatives are sometimes referred to as unreal commands — this is because we use them to express hope rather than giving an actual command.

These polite imperatives are well-wishing rather than commands. It is unlikely that the person who said “have a nice day” isn’t demanding the subject does anything specific with their day — they are simply hoping it turns out to be a good one.

Fig. 2 — Wish imperatives shouldn’t be taken literally.

Warning imperatives

Warning imperatives are usually very short. They are used to warn others of danger or an incoming problem.

Let’s take a look at that list of example imperatives again. Did you manage to identify the purpose of each sentence correctly?

Keep an eye out for reported speech or indirect speech! Reported speech is when we repeat, or report back, something that someone has said. In this case, the sentences are almost always declarative. For example: ‘Sit down ‘ (= imperative) and ‘She told me to sit down ‘ (= reported speech).

What are some well-known examples of imperatives?

There are thousands of well-known examples of imperative sentences out there, from song lyrics and speeches to marketing campaigns and road signs. Let’s take a look at a few of them:

This speech has frequently been described as one of the most imperative speeches in American history. Here Martin Luther King Jr. uses imperative sentences to convey a sense of command and to give advice.

Here, the singer is using imperative sentences to instruct the audience to stand up for their rights. You will notice that, throughout the lyrics, there is no subject; this is because the subject is anyone listening to the song.

Now you have seen some examples of imperative sentences, how many other famous examples can you think of?