26984 words

imperative

7 definitions • 8 examples
1

Examples:

[ + that ] The president said it was imperative that the release of all hostages be secured.
[ + to infinitive ] It's imperative to act now before the problem gets really serious.
2
used to describe the form of a verb that is usually used for giving orders:

Examples:

In the phrase "Leave him alone!", the verb "leave" is in the imperative form.
3
the form of a verb that is usually used for giving orders:

Examples:

in the imperative In the phrase "Leave him alone!", the verb "leave" is an imperative/is in the imperative.
4
something that is extremely important or urgent:

Examples:

moral imperative Getting the unemployed back to work, said the mayor, is a moral imperative.
5

Examples:

[ + that clause ] It is imperative that these medical supplies be delivered immediately.
6
the mood (= form) of a verb used for giving orders:

Examples:

In the phrase "Leave him alone," the verb "leave" is in the imperative.
7
something that needs to be done or given attention immediately:

Examples:

The government has a moral imperative to provide equal access to high-quality education for all children.

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