Commands, instructions and invitations: base form, Don't..., Let's..., and softening with please/just
I can give directions, instructions and suggestions with the imperative and let's.
Look at these examples. Can you spot the grammar pattern?
Turn right at the lights, then take the second exit.
Turn right at the lights, then take the second exit.
Let's split the bill — and don't even think about paying for me.
Let's split the bill — and don't even think about paying for me.
Pay attention to the highlighted parts. What do they have in common?
The imperative is the bare base form — no subject:
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| + | Turn left. Take a seat. |
| − | Don't worry. Don't touch that! |
| let's | Let's start. Let's not argue. |
| softened | Please hold on. Just give me a minute. |
Recipes, directions and signs live in the imperative: Mix the eggs. Mind the gap.
A subject is possible: you adds emphasis or contrast (You sit down right now! You stay here, I'll go). And spoken directions often use you + present simple: You go straight on, then you turn left at the lights.
Apply this grammar in A2 course exercises
Practice Exercisesyou added to a neutral command
Neutral command: Turn left; you = emphasis or contrast; you + present simple is fine for directions
to after let's
let's + bare infinitive
Turn right at the lights, then take the second exit.
Turn right at the lights, then take the second exit.
Directions in chained imperatives.
Let's split the bill — and don't even think about paying for me.
Let's split the bill — and don't even think about paying for me.
let's + negative imperative in one friendly line.
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Ready-made hints are free
Practice in course
Apply this grammar in A2 course exercises