JLPT N4
命令形 (imperative)
Command form
Structure
Verb imperative form
How it works
The imperative form (命令形) is used to give direct, strong commands. In modern Japanese, it is primarily used by males in high-authority positions, in emergency situations, during sports cheering, or in manuals and road signs. Because it sounds incredibly blunt and forceful, it should be avoided in polite conversation.
Examples
早く寝ろ。
Go to sleep early!
止まれ。
Stop.
もっと頑張れ！
Try harder! / Do your best!
Common mistakes
Using the imperative form with equals or superiors, which is considered extremely rude and aggressive.
Tip
To conjugate Group 1 (u-verbs), change the last 'u' sound to 'e'. For Group 2 (ru-verbs), replace 'ru' with 'ro'. Group 3 is irregular: Suru becomes 'Shiro' and Kuru becomes 'Koi'.
More JLPT N4 grammar
See 命令形 (imperative) in real Japanese
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