Imperativ

imperative (grammatical mood)

noun im-pe-ra-TEEF Rare

Origin: from Latin imperativus (commanding)

Usage Note

Imperativ is the mood used for commands, requests, and instructions. German distinguishes three imperative forms: du (Geh!), ihr (Geht!), and the formal Sie (Gehen Sie!).

Examples

"Der Imperativ wird für Befehle und Aufforderungen verwendet."

Natural Translation

The imperative is used for commands and requests.

Literal Translation

The imperative is for commands and requests used.

Related Words

Explore German by topic

GermanNow

German Separable Verbs: When the Prefix Splits

German separable verbs split in two: the verb stays near the front and the prefix flies to the end. Learn the stress test and where every piece goes.

June 5, 2026 5 min read

GermanNow

Order Food in German: Restaurant Phrases

Order food in German with confidence: use ich hätte gern, read the Speisekarte, ask die Rechnung bitte, and handle zusammen oder getrennt like a local.

June 5, 2026 5 min read

GermanNow

Tipping in Germany: A Visitor's Etiquette Guide

Tipping in Germany means saying your total out loud, not leaving coins. Learn the exact phrases, how much to tip, and the Sie-vs-du etiquette travelers need.

June 5, 2026 6 min read

GermanNow

Weil vs Denn vs Da: "Because" in German

Weil and da send the verb to the end; denn keeps it in second position. Here's how to pick the right German "because" and place the verb correctly.

June 5, 2026 6 min read