der Imperativ
imperative
In grammar, the command form of a verb. It is used to express a request, command, or prohibition.
EXAMPLE
Der Imperativ von 'gehen' ist 'Geh!'.
The imperative of 'gehen' (to go) is 'Geh!' (Go!).
der Imperativ
imperative
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Meanings
der Imperativ
imperative
A binding command, an absolute duty, or a necessity that determines action. The term is often used in philosophical or ethical contexts.
EXAMPLE
Der Schutz der Menschenwürde ist ein moralischer Imperativ.
The protection of human dignity is a moral imperative.
Usage tips
Context clue
You can recognize the meaning from context. In linguistics, it refers to the command form of a verb. In philosophy or ethics, it refers to a moral duty or an unconditional command.
EXAMPLE
Wie lautet der Imperativ von „sprechen“?
What is the imperative of 'sprechen' (to speak)?
Register: technical term
'Imperativ' (imperative) is a technical term in both meanings. It is used in academic, school, or intellectual discussions, but rarely in everyday colloquial speech.
EXAMPLE
Im Deutschunterricht lernen wir heute, wie man den Imperativ bildet.
In German class today, we are learning how to form the imperative.
Fixed expression
In the philosophical meaning, the best-known expression is 'der kategorische Imperativ' (the categorical imperative). This is a central concept in the philosophy of Immanuel Kant.
EXAMPLE
Der kategorische Imperativ fordert, dass man nur nach Grundsätzen handeln soll, die ein allgemeines Gesetz werden könnten.
The categorical imperative requires that one act only according to principles that could become a universal law.
Compare with
Imperativ vs Befehl
order / command
Der Befehl is an instruction issued by an authorized person. Der Imperativ, by contrast, is the grammatical form of a verb used to express a command, request, or prohibition. When you are talking about the content, Befehl is the right term; when you are talking about the verb form, Imperativ is the right term.
Imperativ
„Komm sofort zurück!“ steht im Imperativ.
“Come back immediately!” is in the imperative.
Befehl
Der Befehl des Offiziers lautete: „Sofort zurück!“
The officer's order was: “Get back immediately!”
In real life
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