imperative

UK: ɪmˈpɛrətɪv | US: ɪmˈpɛrətɪv

Definition

  1. adj. extremely urgent or necessary

  2. adj. expressing a command or authority

  3. n. a command or essential rule

  4. n. (grammar) the mood of a verb used to give orders

Structure
im <in, upon>pera <prepare, arrange>tive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin imperativus (commanding), from imperare (to command), itself formed from im- (upon) + parare (to prepare, arrange). The root pera evolved into the idea of "ordering" or "directing," reflecting authority or necessity. Over time, it retained its dual sense of urgency (adj.) and grammatical function (n.).

Examples

  1. It is imperative to evacuate during a fire alarm.

  2. The general spoke in an imperative tone.

  3. "Listen carefully" is an imperative sentence.

  4. Safety protocols are business imperatives.

  5. The imperative mood is common in instructions.