Imperative Sentence Examples with Answers
Imperative sentences are used every day—to give instructions, advice, and requests. Students often see these sentence types in exam questions, classroom directions, and even on signs. Understanding imperative sentences is important for schoolwork, tests, and confident English communication. At Vedantu, we simplify imperative sentences to help you succeed in exams and daily life.
| Type of Imperative Sentence | Example | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Positive Command | Read this book. | Homework instruction |
| Negative Command | Don’t touch that. | Warning/prohibition |
| Request | Please open the window. | Being polite |
| Advice | Drink more water. | Health tip |
| Conditional Imperative | If you are tired, take a break. | Conditional instruction |
What Are Imperative Sentences?
Imperative sentences tell someone to do or not do an action. They are direct, use the base form of the verb, and usually address “you” as the implied subject. Imperative sentences are common in recipes, instructions, classroom tasks, and spoken English.
Imperative Sentence Structure
- The subject (“you”) is usually understood, not written.
- Starts with the base verb (for example, “Go,” “Write,” “Don’t stop”).
- Ends with a period (.) for neutral commands or an exclamation mark (!) for strong commands.
- Polite imperatives may use “please” or “kindly.”
- Negative imperatives use “don’t” or “do not” + base verb.
Types of Imperative Sentences
- Command: Stop talking.
- Request: Please sit down.
- Advice: Take your time.
- Prohibition: Do not run in the hall.
- Conditional: If you finish early, check your answers.
Imperative Sentence Examples
- Close the door.
- Wash your hands before eating.
- Don’t forget your homework.
- Please listen carefully.
- Be respectful to your classmates.
- Let’s start the project now.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Bring your notebook for the lesson.
- Keep going, you’re doing well!
- If you get stuck, ask for help.
Imperative Sentences vs Other Types
| Sentence Type | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Imperative | Gives a command or instruction | Turn off your phone. |
| Declarative | Makes a statement | The book is on the desk. |
| Interrogative | Asks a question | Are you coming? |
| Exclamatory | Expresses strong feeling | What a wonderful day! |
Imperative Sentences in Real Life
- Classroom: “Bring your homework tomorrow.”
- Recipes: “Chop the onions finely.”
- Signs: “Do not enter.”
- Letters: “Please find the report attached.”
- Conversations: “Let’s meet at 5 pm.”
Practice: Identify and Use Imperative Sentences
- Rewrite this as imperative: “You need to be careful on the road.”
Answer: Be careful on the road. - Change to negative: “Call me tonight.”
Answer: Don’t call me tonight. - Identify the function: “Please be on time.”
Answer: Request.
Summary
Imperative sentences are simple, direct ways to give commands, requests, or advice. They help in speaking clearly, writing instructions, and excelling in exams. At Vedantu, understanding imperative sentences supports your grammar and communication confidence for school, tests, and daily English use.
Explore more about sentences here: Types of Sentences
FAQs on Imperative Sentences: Meaning, Rules & Examples
1. What is an imperative sentence?
An imperative sentence gives a direct command, makes a request, or offers advice. It typically begins with the base form of a verb and the subject (usually 'you') is implied. Examples include: "Close the door," "Please help me," and "Be careful!"
2. Give 10 examples of imperative sentences.
Here are 10 examples:
- Open the window.
- Please sit down.
- Don't touch that!
- Listen carefully.
- Be quiet.
- Call me later.
- Try your best.
- Complete this task.
- Submit your assignment.
- Read the instructions.
3. How do you identify an imperative sentence?
Look for a sentence that begins with a verb and gives a command, request, or instruction. The subject ('you') is usually implied, not explicitly stated. For example, "Go home" is an imperative sentence, while "The dog is barking" is not.
4. What’s the difference between an imperative and an exclamatory sentence?
An imperative sentence gives a command or request (e.g., "Close the door"). An exclamatory sentence expresses strong emotion or surprise (e.g., "That's amazing!").
5. How do you change imperative sentences into indirect speech?
Use a reporting verb like "asked," "told," or "requested," and change the command into a to-infinitive phrase. For example, "He said, 'Go home'" becomes "He told me to go home."
6. Can an imperative sentence have an explicit subject?
Yes, although it's uncommon. For example, "You, be quiet!" explicitly states the subject.
7. Are all imperative sentences commands?
No. They can also be requests, invitations, advice, or warnings (e.g., "Please help me," "Come to my party," "Be careful!").
8. Is “Let us go” an imperative sentence?
Yes, sentences starting with "Let's" are imperative sentences expressing suggestions or proposals.
9. Do imperative sentences always end with a full stop?
No. They can end with an exclamation mark to show strong emotion or urgency (e.g., "Stop!").
10. Can imperative sentences be passive?
Yes, using the passive voice: "Let the door be closed." This is called a passive imperative.
11. What are some common mistakes made with imperative sentences?
Common errors include forgetting "don't" in negative imperatives, using incorrect verb forms, and being unclear or abrupt in polite requests. Ensure clarity and appropriateness for the context.
12. How are imperative sentences used in different writing styles?
Imperative sentences are adaptable to diverse writing styles. In formal writing, they might be more polite (e.g., "Kindly submit..."). In informal writing, they can be more direct (e.g., "Do this..."). Always consider your audience and purpose.
