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Tense guide
Imperativo (Imperative (affirmative))

Language: Italian
Tense:
Person:

Practice conjugation drills

Introduction

This verb form is used to tell someone what to do. You can use it to give a strong command, a friendly suggestion, or clear instructions. It is a direct way of speaking to another person.

The most common use is for giving direct orders or commands. You use this when you want someone to do something immediately.

Siediti qui.
(Sit here.)
Ascolta!
(Listen!)
Apri la finestra, per favore.
(Open the window, please.)
Finisci i compiti adesso.
(Finish your homework now.)
Parla più lentamente.
(Speak more slowly.)
Vai via!
(Go away!)

You also use it to give friendly advice or suggestions. This is a softer way to recommend an action to someone.

Prova questa pizza, è deliziosa.
(Try this pizza, it's delicious.)
Leggi questo libro, ti piacerà.
(Read this book, you will like it.)
Prendi l'ombrello, sta piovendo.
(Take the umbrella, it's raining.)
Riposati un po', sembri stanco.
(Rest a little, you look tired.)

It is used for giving instructions, like in a recipe or when giving directions. This is for step-by-step processes.

Prima, mescola la farina e lo zucchero.
(First, mix the flour and the sugar.)
Poi, aggiungi il latte.
(Then, add the milk.)
Gira a sinistra dopo il ponte.
(Turn left after the bridge.)
Premi il pulsante per iniziare.
(Press the button to start.)

You can use a special form to make a polite or formal request. This shows respect when speaking to an older person, a stranger, or someone in a position of authority.

Signora, mi scusi.
(Excuse me, ma'am.)
Prego, si accomodi.
(Please, have a seat.)
Per favore, mi dica l'ora.
(Please, tell me the time.)
Mi dia quel libro, per cortesia.
(Give me that book, please.)

This form is perfect for making a friendly invitation.

Vieni alla mia festa!
(Come to my party!)
Entrate, fa freddo fuori.
(Come in, it's cold outside. - to more than one person)
Prendi un'altra fetta di torta.
(Have another slice of cake.)

It is also used to give an urgent warning.

Stai attento!
(Be careful!)
Guarda! C'è una macchina.
(Look! There is a car.)

Further explanations

Conjugation patterns