Imperative and present simple

Imperative

Forming imperatives

When the subject is you, use (don’t +) infinitive without to + infinitive without to.

• Call me tomorrow for a chat.
• Don't/do + infinitive without Don't be late for the meeting.
• Do not forget to ask participants for feedback (Do not is generally used in writing).

When the subject is we, use let’s (not).

Using imperatives

You usually use the imperative to tell people to do something.

• Don’t wait for customers to contact you. Phone them.

In spoken English, imperative can sound very direct, so you can add just or please to soften the message.

• Please have a seat.
• Just send me an email.

Don’t use imperatives to workers, receptionists, shop assistants, etc., if you want to sound polite.

• Could we see the menu, please?

You can also use imperatives to make offers or invitations.

• Come and see the new office when you’re in town.

Forming the present simple

The verb is irregular.

Using the present simple

You use the present simple for things that are generally true and permanent situations.

• She comes from Stuttgart.
• I don’t live far from the office.

You use the present simple for actions that happen regularly (e.g., always, usually, regularly, often, sometimes, never, every day, twice a week) with the present simple.

• He always takes the underground.
• How often do you check the accounts?

You often use the present simple with state verbs (e.g., feel, hear, like, see, think, understand).

• I hear you’re opening a new office in Madrid.
• What do you think?
• Is it a good idea to invest in a new logo?