Writing

Imperative Sentences: How to Write an Imperative Sentence

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Aug 13, 2021 • 1 min read

Imperative sentences give a direct command to an implied second person.

Learn From the Best

What Is an Imperative Sentence?

An imperative sentence is a sentence that expresses a direct command, request, invitations, warning, or instruction. Imperative sentences do not have a subject; instead, a directive is given to an implied second person. For example, the sentence “Wash the dinner plates” commands the implied subject to wash the dishes.

2 Types of Imperative Sentences

In English grammar, imperative sentences fall into two main categories: positive imperatives and negative imperative sentences.

  1. 1. Positive imperative sentences: These sentences use affirmative verbs to address the subject. For example, “Pick up some bread from the store.”
  2. 2. Negative imperative sentences: These sentences tell the subject to not do something. They usually begin with the verb "don't" or the negative form of a verb. For example, “Don’t forget your luggage.”

3 Elements of Imperative Sentences

The sentence structure of an imperative sentence centers around an imperative verb.

  1. 1. Implied second person: An imperative sentence does not contain a subject. Instead, the subject of an imperative sentence is an implied second person—“you.”
  2. 2. Imperative verb: An imperative sentence typically begins with an infinitive form of a verb (omitting the "to") followed by the rest of the predicate.
  3. 3. Punctuation: Imperative sentences typically end with a period, but the sentence can end with an exclamation mark if the request is particularly urgent.

4 Types of Sentences

Sentences can express statements, questions, commands, or exclamations.

  1. 1. Imperative sentence: An imperative sentence addresses an implied second person with a request, command, instruction, or invitation.
  2. 2. Declarative sentence: A declarative sentence is a sentence that makes a statement, provides a fact, offers an explanation, or conveys information.
  3. 3. Interrogative sentence: This type of sentence asks a question and ends with a question mark.
  4. 4. Exclamatory sentence: This sentence expresses excitement or emotion, contains a subject, and ends with an exclamation point.

Want to Learn More About Writing?

Become a better writer with the MasterClass Annual Membership. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including James Patterson, Neil Gaiman, Walter Mosley, Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, Dan Brown, and more.