Imperative sentence

Definition

An imperative sentence is a type of sentence that issues a command, request, or instruction to the listener or reader. These sentences often begin with a verb and can end with a period or an exclamation mark, depending on the strength of the command. Understanding imperative sentences is essential for grasping how commands function within various sentence types and how they can be structured in communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Imperative sentences can be either direct, telling someone to do something, or indirect, suggesting a course of action without outright commands.
2. The subject of an imperative sentence is often implied as 'you,' which is understood even though it is not explicitly stated.
3. Imperative sentences are commonly used in instructions, such as recipes or manuals, where clarity and directness are crucial.
4. In written form, imperative sentences can convey urgency or importance depending on punctuation, such as using an exclamation mark for emphasis.
5. Polite requests can also take the form of imperative sentences, often softened by phrases like 'please' to make them more courteous.

Review Questions

• How do imperative sentences differ from declarative and interrogative sentences in terms of function and structure?
  • Imperative sentences differ from declarative sentences, which make statements, and interrogative sentences, which ask questions. While declarative sentences provide information and interrogative sentences seek it, imperative sentences direct the listener to take action. Imperatives often start with verbs and imply the subject 'you,' while declaratives typically begin with a noun or pronoun and interrogatives begin with question words or auxiliary verbs.
• Discuss how the use of punctuation affects the tone of an imperative sentence and provide examples.
  • The use of punctuation in imperative sentences significantly impacts their tone. For example, an imperative like 'Close the door.' sounds straightforward and polite due to the period. However, if phrased as 'Close the door!' it conveys urgency or strong emotion. The choice between using a period or an exclamation mark can shape how the command is perceived by the listener, affecting its level of politeness or urgency.
• Evaluate the role of imperative sentences in instructional writing and their impact on reader engagement.
  • Imperative sentences play a crucial role in instructional writing by providing clear and direct commands that guide the reader through tasks. Their effectiveness lies in their ability to convey steps succinctly, enhancing comprehension and usability. By using imperatives, writers can create engaging content that actively involves readers in following instructions, thereby improving their overall experience and understanding of the material presented.

Related terms

declarative sentence: A declarative sentence makes a statement or expresses an idea, typically ending with a period.

interrogative sentence:

An interrogative sentence asks a question and usually begins with a question word or an auxiliary verb.

exclamatory sentence: An exclamatory sentence expresses strong emotion or emphasis and typically ends with an exclamation mark.