Imperative Form: Conjugating and Using Commands in Portuguese

The imperative form is used to give commands, make requests, and give advice in Portuguese. It is a useful tool to communicate effectively and assertively. In this guide, we will learn the rules to conjugate and use the imperative form in Portuguese.

Conjugating Regular Verbs in the Imperative Form

For -AR verbs:

• For the tu form, remove the final -R of the infinitive and add -A.
• For the você form, use the present tense conjugation of the verb.
• For the nós form, remove the final -R of the infinitive and add -EMOS.

Example with the verb "falar" (to speak):

• Tu fala (Speak)
• Você fala (Speak)
• Nós falamos (Let's speak)

For -ER and -IR verbs:

• For the tu form, remove the final -R of the infinitive and add -E.
• For the você form, use the present tense conjugation of the verb.
• For the nós form, remove the final -R of the infinitive and add -AMOS.

Example with the verb "comer" (to eat):

• Tu come (Eat)
• Você come (Eat)
• Nós comemos (Let's eat)

Using the Imperative Form

To make commands, requests, or give advice effectively in Portuguese, follow these guidelines:

1. Use the imperative form with the verb alone to give commands or instructions.

   Examples:

   • Aprenda a falar português. (Learn to speak Portuguese.)
   • Feche a porta, por favor. (Close the door, please.)

2. To make requests or give advice more politely, include the word "por favor" (please) after the verb.

   Examples:

   • Fale, por favor. (Speak, please.)
   • Coma devagar, por favor. (Eat slowly, please.)

3. Use the negative form of the imperative by adding "não" before the verb to indicate prohibition.

   Examples:

   • Não fale alto. (Don't speak loudly.)
   • Não coma isso. (Don't eat that.)

4. Use reflexive pronouns with reflexive verbs to indicate actions done to oneself.

   Example:

   • Lave-se as mãos. (Wash your hands.)

5. In the informal/formal distinction, use the "tu" form for close relationships or informal situations, and the "você" form for more formal situations or with people you are less familiar with.

   Example:

   • Informal: Vem aqui amanhã. (Come here tomorrow.)
   • Formal: Venha aqui amanhã. (Come here tomorrow.)

Summary

To effectively use the imperative form in Portuguese:

• Conjugate regular verbs according to the rules provided.
• Use the verb alone to give commands or instructions.
• Use "por favor" after the verb to make requests or give advice politely.
• Add "não" before the verb to indicate prohibition in the negative form.
• Use reflexive pronouns with reflexive verbs.
• Consider the informal/formal distinction when choosing between "tu" and "você" forms.

Remember to practice using the imperative form in everyday situations to become more comfortable with it. Happy commanding, requesting, and advising in Portuguese!