ConjugationIntermediate6 min read
Japanese Imperative Form (命令形): Commands
命令形
Learn the imperative form (命令形) for giving direct commands. Understand when and how to use this strong form.
The imperative form (命令形 - meirei-kei) gives direct commands. It's a strong form used in specific contexts - emergencies, sports, or when authority is appropriate. In everyday life, てください is usually more appropriate.
How to Form the Imperative(命令形の作り方)
Formation varies by verb type:
| Verb Type | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Godan | う → え | 書く → 書け |
| Ichidan | る → ろ | 食べる → 食べろ |
| する | → しろ | する → しろ |
| くる | → こい | くる → こい |
Godan Verb Examples(五段動詞の例)
Change the final う-sound to え-sound:
| Dictionary | Imperative |
|---|---|
| 行く | 行け |
| 読む | 読め |
| 話す | 話せ |
| 待つ | 待て |
| 飲む | 飲め |
When to Use(使う場面)
The imperative is used in:
- Emergencies: 逃げろ！(Run away!)
- Sports: 走れ！(Run!)
- Military/Police: 止まれ！(Stop!)
- Manga/Anime: Common in fiction
危ない！止まれ！
あぶない！とまれ！
abunai! tomare!
Dangerous! Stop!
!
In daily conversation, use てください for polite requests instead.
Negative Imperative(禁止形)
For negative commands, use dictionary form + な:
- 行くな！(Don't go!)
- 触るな！(Don't touch!)
心配するな。
しんぱいするな。
shinpai suru na.
Don't worry.
✓Summary
Imperative form:
- Godan: う → え
- Ichidan: る → ろ
- Strong - use for emergencies, sports
- Negative: dictionary + な