German Commands – Imperative Forms Explained

Key takeaways

• The German imperative helps you give clear instructions, suggestions, or friendly directions.
• Each command form changes depending on whether you speak to one person, a group, or politely.
• Imperatives often remove the subject, keeping the message short and direct.
• Learning this form helps you follow everyday signs, recipes, and simple spoken directions.

The German imperative gives you a simple way to express commands, suggestions, and direct requests. You see it on signs, in recipes, and in daily conversations. When you learn these forms, you understand spoken German with more ease.

This form stays short, friendly, and practical. If you want steady support, you can explore an immersive German language course and practice clear, natural commands step by step.

What is the German imperative?

The imperative (Imperativ) is the verb form used to tell someone what to do. German changes the verb depending on the level of formality and the number of people you speak to.

You see the imperative in:

• instructions
• friendly suggestions
• everyday reminders
• short messages and signs

Examples:

• Komm! (Come!)
• Helft mir! (Help me!)
• Sprechen Sie langsamer! (Speak more slowly!)

When German uses the imperative

German uses this form to:

• give direct commands
• offer gentle suggestions
• ask for help
• guide someone step by step

These forms appear in daily interactions, making them helpful for beginners.

How to form the imperative in German

German imperative forms depend on the pronoun you use: du, ihr, or Sie.

Imperative with *du* (informal singular)

For *du*, remove the ending -st and usually drop the pronoun.

Pattern:

• du lernst → Lern!
• du kommst → Komm!
• du machst → Mach!

If the verb stem ends in -d, -t, or -gn, keep the -e:

• Warte! (Wait!)
• Atme! (Breathe!)

Imperative with *ihr* (informal plural)

The *ihr* form keeps its regular present tense ending -t:

Examples:

• Lernt! (Learn!)
• Kommt! (Come!)
• Geht! (Go!)

Imperative with *Sie* (formal)

Use Sie after the infinitive form:

Examples:

• Kommen Sie!
• Warten Sie!
• Lesen Sie!

This form stays polite and respectful.

Special forms and exceptions

Some verbs have unique imperative forms:

• Sein → Sei! / Seid! / Seien Sie!
• Haben → Hab! / Habt! / Haben Sie!
• Werden → Werd! / Werdet! / Werden Sie!

These appear in formal announcements and everyday guidance.

Adding bitte for polite commands

You can soften the tone with bitte:

• Komm bitte!
• Sprechen Sie bitte langsamer!

This helps keep your request warm and friendly.

Imperatives you see in daily life

German signs and instructions use the imperative often:

• Nicht rauchen! (No smoking!)
• Tür schließen! (Close the door!)
• Vorsichtig fahren! (Drive carefully!)

Recognizing these forms helps you understand practical German in real situations.

Imperative in recipes and guides

Step-by-step instructions rely on this structure:

• Schneide das Gemüse! (Cut the vegetables!)
• Misch alles gut! (Mix everything well!)
• Heizen Sie den Ofen vor! (Preheat the oven!)

Tips for learning the German imperative

Try these friendly habits:

• Compare du, ihr, and Sie forms side by side.
• Practice with cooking instructions or simple to-do lists.
• Repeat short phrases each day to build comfort.
• Listen to commands in videos and follow along.

Small steps help you understand real German communication with clarity.

Learn the German imperative with support on Promova

Promova offers simple examples, guided exercises, and warm explanations that help you learn the imperative with confidence. With short tasks and personalized practice, you can build steady command of this useful structure.

Final thoughts on the German imperative

The German imperative gives you quick, clear ways to guide actions and follow instructions. Once you learn the pattern, you understand signs, recipes, and everyday requests with more comfort. With kind support and small daily practice, you grow skills step by step.

FAQ

What is the imperative used for in German?

It gives commands, suggestions, and direct requests. You see it in speech, guides, and signs.

How do you form the du imperative?

Remove the du pronoun and drop the ending -st. Some verbs keep the -e ending for clarity.

How is the *Sie* imperative formed?

Use the infinitive form followed by Sie, as in *Kommen Sie!* or *Lesen Sie!*.

Are imperatives common in daily German?

Yes, you see them in instructions, reminders, and everyday guidance. They help keep communication simple and clear.