The imperative mood

1. What is the imperative mood?

The imperative mood is a grammatical mood used to give commands, advice, make requests, or offer instructions. It is direct and usually concise. It aims to prompt action from the listener or reader. Unlike other moods, the imperative does not typically include a subject (like "you") because it is implied. In this lesson, we will learn the usage and look at different examples of imperative mood in English.

	Indicative mood	Imperative mood
Purpose	To state facts, describe things, or ask questions.	To give commands, make requests, offer instructions, or give advice.
Tone	Informative, descriptive, or inquisitive.	Direct, commanding, instructive, or encouraging.
Who it's about	Talks about someone or something.	Talks to someone directly (often implied "you").
Sentence type	Statements and questions.	Commands and requests.
Subject	The subject is clearly stated (I, you, he, she, they, etc.).	The subject "you" is implied, not usually stated.
Time/tense	Can be past, present, or future.	Typically focuses on present or near future actions.
Examples	He is reading a book. She is cooking dinner. Do they know the answer?	Read the book. Cook dinner. Listen carefully.

2. Examples of the imperative mood

2.1 Giving commands

Commands in the imperative mood are used to express direct orders that require immediate compliance. They are often short, clear, authoritative, and leave no room for negotiation or interpretation. These directives are typically given by someone in a position of authority, such as a leader, teacher, parent, or superior officer, to someone expected to follow instructions without question. The tone can be firm or forceful, depending on the situation and the urgency of the command.

Turn off the lights before you leave.
Stop talking right now.
Close the door behind you.
Stand up straight.
Leave the room immediately.
Pay attention!
Do your homework.
Hand over your phone.
Turn off the lights.
Move out of the way.
Get in line.

2.2 Giving advice

Advice expressed in the imperative mood offers guidance or recommendations aimed at helping someone make better decisions or improve a situation. Unlike direct commands, advice often carries a tone of encouragement, concern, or support rather than authority.

Take it one step at a time.
Drink plenty of water every day.
Trust your instincts.
Be kind to yourself.
Save a portion of your income.
Think before you speak.
Stay positive, even when it’s hard.
Keep learning new things.
Don’t let fear hold you back.
Focus on what you can control.

2.3 Making requests

Requests in the imperative mood are polite or considerate directives aimed at eliciting cooperation or assistance. They often reflect respect for the listener's autonomy by softening the language or adding courteous expressions. While the structure remains direct, requests typically avoid sounding demanding or forceful.

Please pass me the salt.
Lend me a pen for a moment, please.
Help me with this box, please.
Please hold the elevator.
Kindly email me the details.
Please wait here for a minute.
Pass the message along, if you can.
Please wait for me.

2.4 Giving instructions

Instructions in the imperative mood provide clear, step-by-step guidance on how to complete a task or process. They are commonly used in educational, technical, and procedural contexts where accuracy and clarity are essential.