The important exercises say, “Don’t touch!” Stop talking! A1 Basic English grammar and exercises. Learn how to use the imperative in English with clear examples and exercises.
Exercises & Summary
The Imperative: Don’t touch! Stop talking!
You use the imperative form to tell someone to do something, give them advice, or invite them. It’s a clear and easy way to tell someone what to do (or not to do).
Form
- We use the base form of the verb (infinitive without to).
Open the door.
Sit down.
Listen carefully.
There is no subject — we understand that the subject is “you.”
(You) Come here!
Negative Form
To make the imperative negative, use don’t + verb.
Don’t run!
Don’t touch that!
Don’t be late!
Polite Imperatives
To sound more polite, you can add “please” at the beginning or end:
Please sit down.
Close the window, please.
Common Uses
- Orders or commands:
Be quiet!, Stop talking! - Instructions:
Turn right at the corner., Add some sugar. - Advice:
Take care., Relax! - Invitations:
Come in!, Have some coffee!
Examples
Wait for me!
Don’t eat that!
Be careful!
Please help me!
Summary:
Affirmative: Verb (base form) → Sit down.
Negative: Don’t + verb → Don’t shout.