Topic: Commands in English (Imperative form) 1

Grammar review A command (also called an imperative) tells someone to do something. It is one of the simplest and most useful structures in English. To form a command, use the base form of the verb — no subject, no conjugation needed.

Sit down.   Close the door.   Write your name here.

The three main types:

1. Positive commands — tell someone to do something.
Turn left at the corner. / Please wait here.

2. Negative commands — tell someone not to do something. Use Don't + base verb.
Don't touch that. / Don't be late.

3. Polite commands — soften a command with please, could you, or would you mind.
Please pass the salt. / Could you open the window?

Common situations where we use commands:
Giving directions (Turn left), instructions (Mix the flour and sugar), warnings (Watch out!), and requests (Please call me later).

Good to know: The subject of a command is always you — it just isn't said out loud. This is called the understood you. So "Sit down" really means "You, sit down."

Ready for more practice? Try Commands Exercise 2!