Imperative Sentence: Definition, 100 Examples & Easy Guide for Daily English
An imperative sentence is used to give commands, instructions, requests, or advice. It is one of the most practical and commonly used sentence types in English grammar because it directly tells someone what to do.
In this article, you will learn the definition of an imperative sentence, its uses, and 100 clear examples to help you understand how an imperative sentence works in daily communication.
Definition of Imperative Sentence
An imperative sentence gives an order, makes a request, provides instructions, or offers advice. The verb is in its base form and the subject is usually understood.
Uses of Imperative Sentence
This type of sentence is commonly used in everyday communication for the following purposes:
- To give commands or orders
- To make requests
- To provide instructions or directions
- To give advice or warnings
Types of Imperative Sentences
Based on purpose,this type of sentence can be divided into the following types:
- Command: Gives a direct order (e.g., Close the door.)
- Request: Makes a polite demand (e.g., Please help me.)
- Instruction: Gives directions or steps (e.g., Follow the instructions.)
- Advice: Offers suggestions (e.g., Be honest.)
📌 Imperative Sentence at a Glance
This type of sentence is used to give a command, request, instruction, or advice.
🔹 Definition
This type of sentence tells someone what to do. The subject is usually hidden and understood as “you.”🔹 Types
- Command: Close the door.
- Request: Please help me.
- Instruction: Follow the rules.
- Advice: Be honest.
🔹 Structure
Base Verb + Object (optional)
Example: Finish your homework.
🔹 Key Features
- Verb is in base form
- Subject is implied (you)
- Ends with (.) or (!)
🔹 Examples
✔ Sit down. ✔ Do not touch that. ✔ Please listen carefully.
✔ Clear • ✔ Direct • ✔ Action-oriented
100 Examples of Imperative Sentences
Command sentence
- Close the door.
- Turn off the lights.
- Clean your room.
- Finish your homework.
- Be quiet.
- Sit down.
- Stand up.
- Pay attention.
- Stop talking.
- Listen carefully.
- Come here.
- Go away.
- Open the window.
- Close the curtains.
- Turn off your phone.
- Speak louder.
- Do not touch that.
- Do not be late.
- Keep quiet.
- Leave the room.
- Stand in line.
- Pay the bill.
- Stop right there.
- Follow the rules.
- Control your temper.
- Respect your elders.
- Do not run.
- Answer the question.
- Look at the board.
- Stay here.
Sentences for Requests
- Please help me.
- Give me the book.
- Wait for me.
- Call me later.
- Pass the salt.
- Take a seat.
- Hold the door open.
- Share your ideas.
- Give me a hug.
- Listen to me.
- Show me your ID.
- Please explain this.
- Let me know.
- Speak slowly.
- Help others.
- Be a good listener.
- Check your email.
- Wait a moment.
- Please be patient.
- Take the stairs.
- Share your notes.
- Tell me the truth.
- Give it a try.
- Please forgive me.
- Smile for the camera.
Sentence giving Instructions
- Wash your hands.
- Brush your teeth.
- Take a deep breath.
- Read the instructions.
- Write your name.
- Fill out the form.
- Cook dinner.
- Follow the steps.
- Study for the test.
- Practice daily.
- Turn down the volume.
- Drive safely.
- Look both ways before crossing the street.
- Wake up early.
- Go to sleep.
- Feed the dog.
- Lock the door.
- Save your work.
- Keep your workspace clean.
- Charge your phone.
- Wear your seatbelt.
- Take a break.
- Count to ten.
- Use your manners.
- Check the answer.
Advice examples
These sentences are used to give advice or suggestions.
- Be honest.
- Be kind to others.
- Do your best.
- Stay calm.
- Do not give up.
- Be yourself.
- Respect other people’s opinions.
- Think before you speak.
- Take care of your health.
- Save money.
- Enjoy your meal.
- Learn from your mistakes.
- Trust yourself.
- Keep your promises.
- Love yourself.
- Be patient.
- Do not waste water.
- Do not litter.
- Stay positive.
- Apologize when you are wrong.
Interactive Quiz
Click the correct answer and check your score.
1. Which sentence is an imperative sentence?
2. What is the main purpose of an imperative sentence?
3. Which one is a polite imperative sentence?
4. Identify the negative imperative sentence.
5. In an imperative sentence, the subject is usually:
Test yourself with the interactive quiz above to reinforce your understanding.
Conclusion
An imperative sentence is essential in English grammar. With clear types, uses, and examples, you can easily understand how an imperative sentence works in real-life communication. Mastering these sentences helps you give clear commands, requests, instructions, and advice effectively in everyday situations.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an imperative sentence?
An imperative sentence is a sentence that gives a command, request, instruction, or advice. The subject is usually implied as “you.”
What are some examples of an imperative sentence?
Examples of an imperative sentence include: Close the door, Please help me, Follow the instructions, and Be honest.
Does an imperative sentence always end with a command?
No, an imperative sentence can also be used to make polite requests, give advice, or offer instructions.
Can an imperative sentence be negative?
Yes, a negative imperative sentence uses words like “do not” or “never,” such as: Do not touch that.
Why is an imperative sentence important in English?
An imperative sentence is important because it helps give clear instructions, commands, and advice in everyday communication.