Simple explanation
What is the imperative in English? The imperative is a verb form used to give instructions, requests, commands, or warnings. In English, the sentence usually starts with the base form of the verb. The subject is normally not included because it is understood as you. Positive imperative sentences To make a positive imperative, use the base form of the verb at the beginning of the sentence. You do not add a subject, and the verb does not change. Negative imperative sentences To tell someone not to do something, use Don't + base form of the verb. This structure is common for warnings, rules, and advice. Using Let’s for suggestions Let’s means 'let us' and is used when you suggest doing something together with another person or group. After Let’s, always use the base form of the verb.
Grammar formula
Positive imperative
Base verb + object/complementClose the door.
Negative imperative
Don't + base verb + object/complementDon't open the box.
Suggestion with Let’s
Let's + base verbLet's watch a movie.
Core rules
- 1
Positive imperative rule
Use the base verb without a subject: Open the window. / Listen carefully.
- 2
Negative imperative rule
Use Don't before the base verb: Don't touch that. / Don't be late.
- 3
Let’s rule
Use Let’s + base verb to suggest a shared activity: Let’s play football.
Useful examples
Open your book.
Open your book.
The sentence starts directly with the verb because it is an instruction.
Please sit down.
Sit down, please.
Please makes an imperative sound more polite.
Turn off the lights.
Turn off the lights.
Imperatives can include an object after the verb.
Don't run in the hallway.
Don't run in the hallway.
Don't creates a negative instruction.
Don't forget your keys.
Don't forget your keys.
This is a common reminder in daily conversations.
Let's go to the park.
Let's go to the park.
Let’s suggests an activity with another person.
Let's have dinner together.
Let's have dinner together.
The verb after Let’s stays in the base form.
Listen carefully to the teacher.
Listen carefully to the teacher.
Imperatives are often used for classroom instructions.
Don't open the door.
Don't open the door.
Negative imperatives are used for warnings and rules.
Let's practice English today.
Let's practice English today.
Let’s is useful for making plans together.
Common mistakes
- ❌ You open the door. ✅ Open the door. Imperatives usually do not include the subject you.
- ❌ Don't to touch it. ✅ Don't touch it. After Don't, we use the base verb without to.
- ❌ Let's to go home. ✅ Let's go home. Let’s is followed directly by the base form of the verb.
- ❌ Let's goes now. ✅ Let's go now. The verb after Let’s does not take -s.
- ❌ Don't plays football. ✅ Don't play football. After Don't, the verb stays in its base form.
Learning tips
- Remember that imperatives usually begin with the verb.
- The subject you is understood and normally omitted.
- Use please to make instructions more polite.
- After Don't and Let’s, always use the base form of the verb.
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PlannedRelated grammar
Related dictionary words
Frequently asked questions
When do we use imperatives in English?
We use imperatives for instructions, requests, commands, warnings, and simple advice.
Why is there no subject in an imperative sentence?
The subject is usually understood to be you, so it is normally omitted.
What is the difference between an imperative and Let’s?
An imperative gives an instruction, while Let’s makes a suggestion to do something together.
What verb form comes after Let’s?
The base form of the verb always comes after Let’s.