Forming the imperative in French

The imperative mood in French is used to give commands, make requests, or offer advice. It's an essential part of everyday communication, so let's explore how to form and use it correctly.

Basic Formation

To form the imperative in French, use the present tense conjugation of the verb, but drop the subject pronoun. There are three forms:

• Tu (informal singular)
• Vous (formal singular or plural)
• Nous (first person plural)

Examples:

• Parler (to speak): Parle ! (tu) / Parlez ! (vous) / Parlons ! (nous)
• Finir (to finish): Finis ! (tu) / Finissez ! (vous) / Finissons ! (nous)
• Attendre (to wait): Attends ! (tu) / Attendez ! (vous) / Attendons ! (nous)

Irregular Verbs

Some common irregular verbs have special imperative forms:

• Être (to be): Sois ! (tu) / Soyez ! (vous) / Soyons ! (nous)
• Avoir (to have): Aie ! (tu) / Ayez ! (vous) / Ayons ! (nous)
• Aller (to go): Va ! (tu) / Allez ! (vous) / Allons ! (nous)

Negative Imperative

To form a negative command, simply add "ne... pas" around the verb:

• Ne parle pas ! (Don't speak!)
• N'attendez pas ! (Don't wait!)

Usage Tips

1. Use "vous" for formal situations or when addressing multiple people.
2. The imperative is often softened with "s'il te plaît" or "s'il vous plaît" (please).
3. For reflexive verbs, the reflexive pronoun comes after the verb in positive commands:
   • Lève-toi ! (Get up!) But before the verb in negative commands:
   • Ne te lève pas ! (Don't get up!)

Remember, the imperative is direct, so use it thoughtfully in French conversations to avoid sounding impolite.