Meaning & use
imperative
Extremely important or urgent, requiring immediate attention or action.
See it in a sentence
It is imperative that we finish the report before the deadline tomorrow.
Regular maintenance is imperative for keeping the machinery safe.
A note on using this word
In grammar, imperative also names the verb form used to give commands, such as 'Stop!'
Words with a similar meaning
essentialcrucial
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
optionalunnecessary
Another way to use it
2. noun
The grammatical mood used to give commands, requests, or instructions.
'Close the door' is written in the imperative, with no subject stated.
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