Imperativo (Commands)

Whether you’re asking someone to pass the salt at dinner or giving directions to a tourist, Spanish commands (imperativo) are essential for everyday communication. This guide will help you understand how to use commands effectively in Spanish.

What is the Imperativo?

The imperativo is a verb mood in Spanish used to tell someone what to do. Unlike English, where commands typically have just one form (“Close the door!”), Spanish commands change based on who you’re talking to and whether you’re being positive or negative.

When to Use Spanish Commands

You’ll use the imperativo when you want to:

  • Give direct orders: “¡Ven aquí!” (Come here!)
  • Make polite requests: “Por favor, pásame el libro” (Please pass me the book)
  • Offer friendly advice: “Toma más agua” (Drink more water)
  • Provide directions: “Sigue recto hasta el semáforo” (Go straight until the traffic light)
  • Give warnings: “¡No toques eso!” (Don’t touch that!)

Forms of Commands

  • Informal Commands (Tú)
    • When speaking to friends, family, or children, you’ll use tú commands:
      • Affirmative: “Habla más despacio” (Speak more slowly)
      • Negative: “No hables tan rápido” (Don’t speak so fast)
  • Formal Commands (Usted)
    • For strangers, elderly people, or formal situations, use usted commands:
      • Affirmative: “Pase por aquí” (Come this way)
      • Negative: “No pase por allí” (Don’t go that way)
  • Group Commands (Vosotros/Ustedes)
    • When addressing multiple people:
      • Spain (vosotros): “¡Escuchad!” (Listen!)
      • Latin America (ustedes): “¡Escuchen!” (Listen!)

Real-Life Situations

  • At a Restaurant
    • To the waiter: “Tráigame la cuenta, por favor” (Bring me the bill, please)
    • To a friend: “Prueba este plato” (Try this dish)
  • Giving Directions
    • Formal: “Gire a la derecha” (Turn right)
    • Informal: “Sigue todo recto” (Go straight ahead)
  • At Home
    • To children: “Recoged vuestros juguetes” (Pick up your toys)
    • To a guest: “Siéntese, por favor” (Please, have a seat)
  • Emergency Situations
    • “¡Llamad a una ambulancia!” (Call an ambulance!)
    • “¡No te muevas!” (Don’t move!)

Making Commands More Polite

You can soften commands by:

  • Adding “por favor”: “Cierra la ventana, por favor” (Close the window, please)
  • Using “poder” in question form: “¿Podrías cerrar la ventana?” (Could you close the window?)
  • Adding diminutives: “Espérate un momentito” (Wait just a little moment)

Remember that Spanish commands reflect cultural norms and social relationships. What might seem direct in English could be perfectly polite in Spanish when used in the right context. By choosing the appropriate command form, you show respect for Spanish social customs while clearly communicating your intentions.

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