Imperative Mood in Portuguese
Introduction
The imperative mood is used to give commands, make requests, or offer suggestions. In Portuguese, it varies based on formality and the subject being addressed. This guide will focus on the informal "tu" form.
Conjugation in the Imperative Mood
The imperative for "tu" is derived from the present tense of the verb without the final "-s."
Regular Verbs
-AR Verbs
- Infinitive: falar (to speak)
- Present: tu falas
- Imperative: fala (speak)
-ER Verbs
- Infinitive: comer (to eat)
- Present: tu comes
- Imperative: come (eat)
-IR Verbs
- Infinitive: abrir (to open)
- Present: tu abres
- Imperative: abre (open)
Irregular Verbs
Some verbs have irregular forms in the imperative.
- fazer (to do/make) 👉 faz
- dizer (to say/tell) 👉 diz
- ir (to go) 👉 vai
- ter (to have) 👉 tem
Examples
- Fala com ele.
(Speak to him.)
- Come a tua comida.
(Eat your food.)
- Abre a porta.
(Open the door.)
- Faz o trabalho agora.
(Do the work now.)
- Diz a verdade.
(Tell the truth.)
- Vai para casa.
(Go home.)
- Tem cuidado.
(Be careful.)
Common Uses
The "tu" form is primarily used in informal situations, such as with friends, family, or peers.
Summary
The imperative mood in Portuguese is essential for giving informal commands. By removing the "-s" from the present tense "tu" form, you create the imperative. Remember that some verbs have irregular forms.