Imperative Sentences

Learn how to give commands, make requests, and offer advice with imperative sentences

What Are Imperative Sentences?

Imperative sentences are used to give commands, make requests, offer advice, or give instructions. They often begin with a verb and can end with a period or exclamation mark. From "Please sit down" to "Stop!" imperative sentences are essential for clear communication.

Types of Imperative Sentences

Commands

Stop!

Direct command

Come here.

Simple command

Be quiet.

Behavior command

Listen carefully.

Attention command

Requests

Please help me.

Polite request

Could you open the door?

Question form request

Would you mind passing the salt?

Very polite request

Please sit down.

Simple request

Instructions

Turn left at the corner.

Direction instruction

Add two cups of flour.

Recipe instruction

Press the red button.

Technical instruction

Follow the safety rules.

Rule instruction

Examples in Context

Please close the door when you leave.

Stop! Don't cross the street yet.

Add the eggs and stir until well combined.

Be careful when handling hot objects.

Interactive Quiz 1: Identify Imperative Sentences

Which of these are imperative sentences?

A) Please sit down. B) I am sitting. C) She sits down.

Show Answer

Answer: A) Please sit down.

A) Stop! B) He stopped. C) The car stops.

Show Answer

Answer: A) Stop!

A) Listen carefully. B) I am listening. C) She listens.

Show Answer

Answer: A) Listen carefully.

Interactive Quiz 2: Complete the Imperative

Complete these imperative sentences:

Please _____ the door when you leave.

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Answer: close

_____ left at the traffic light.

Show Answer

Answer: Turn

_____ careful with that glass.

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Answer: Be

Interactive Quiz 3: Convert to Imperative

Convert these statements to imperative sentences:

Convert: "You should study hard."

Show Answer

Answer: Study hard.

Convert: "You need to be quiet."

Show Answer

Answer: Be quiet.

Convert: "You must follow the rules."

Show Answer

Answer: Follow the rules.

Interactive Quiz 4: Polite vs Direct

Identify if these are polite or direct imperatives:

"Please help me." - Polite or Direct?

Show Answer

Answer: Polite

"Stop!" - Polite or Direct?

Show Answer

Answer: Direct

"Would you mind opening the window?" - Polite or Direct?

Show Answer

Answer: Very Polite

Tips for Using Imperative Sentences

1

Use "Please" for Politeness

Add "please" to make requests more polite and respectful.

2

Consider Your Audience

Use appropriate tone based on who you're speaking to.

3

Be Clear and Specific

Make your instructions clear and easy to follow.

Quick Reference

Imperative Types:3 main types
Punctuation:Period or !
Difficulty:Beginner

Pro Tip

Imperative sentences are perfect for giving clear instructions and commands - use them to communicate effectively!