English The Imperative
Overview
This module explores the imperative mood, which is the form of giving commands in English.
Do this! Don’t do that! Let’s do this!
We use a verb in the infinitive when we tell somebody to do something.
- Look in the classifieds!
- Network with people!
- Sit up straight.
We use don’t . . . when we tell somebody not to do something.
- Don’t be late!
- Don’t get fired!
- Don’t tell him that
You can say let’s . . . when you want people to do something with you.
Let’s = let us
- Let’s set up a job interview
- Let’s go to the job fair tomorrow.
Phrases like: I want you to . . . express your wishes for another in the present or future, I want you to get a new job.
- I want you to work for us.
- I want her to fill out an application.
I told you to . . . reminds people of a past verbal command.
- I told you to take an online course.
- I told you not to take an online course.
To express positive wishes and experiences for another we use have like a command.
- Have a great first day of work!
- Have fun celebrating your promotion.
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stephen
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Additional Topics
This unit covers subordinating conjunctions, including after, although, because, before, if, and since. These occur at the beginning of subordinate or dependent clauses, and are used to combine independent and dependent clauses together.
Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
The CEFR is an international standard used to describe language ability. Here are specific details of the CEFR for this topic.