Description
Learn the French imperative (commands) with clear rules, forms (tu, nous, vous), and examples. Master A1–A2 grammar for TEF Canada speaking.
Introduction: How to Give Commands in French
In this lesson on the French imperative, you will learn how to give instructions, directions, and commands in real-life situations.
At TEF 100% level, you must:
- give clear instructions
- guide someone
- use correct verb forms
Mastering the French imperative will help you:
- give directions naturally
- speak clearly in conversations
- succeed in TEF Canada speaking tasks
What Is the French Imperative?
The French imperative is used to:
- give orders
- give instructions
- make suggestions
Key Idea
In the French imperative, you do NOT use the subject.
No “tu”, “nous”, or “vous”
Example
- Tu vas → Allez
- Vous prenez → Prenez
1. Forms of the French Imperative
At A1–A2 level, you use 3 forms:
- tu (informal)
- nous (let’s…)
- vous (formal / plural)
Example Verb: aller
- (tu) va
- (nous) allons
- (vous) allez
Examples
- Va à gauche
- Allons au parc
- Allez tout droit
2. How to Form the French Imperative
Rule
Take the present tense form
Remove the subject
Example
- Tu prends → Prends
- Vous tournez → Tournez
Same verb, no subject
3. Important Rule for -ER Verbs (VERY IMPORTANT)
With tu form, remove “-s”
Example
- Tu regardes → Regarde
- Tu parles → Parle
Incorrect
- Regardes
- Parles
This is a very common mistake.
4. Using the French Imperative in Real Situations
Directions
- Allez tout droit
- Tournez à gauche
Instructions
- Prenez le métro
- Regardez ici
Suggestions
- Allons au cinéma
These are essential in giving directions in French.
5. Common Mistakes in French Imperative
Errors
- Tu va à gauche
- Tu prends le métro
- Regardes ici
Correct Forms
- Va à gauche
- Prends le métro
- Regarde ici
Always remove the subject.
6. TEF Canada Strategy (Exam Focus)
In TEF Canada, the French imperative is used in:
- giving directions
- instructions
- real-life tasks
Example Task
Expliquez le chemin.
High-Scoring Answer
- Allez tout droit
- Tournez à droite
- Prenez le métro
Clear commands = better score
7. Combine Imperative + Directions (A2 Level)
Example
- Allez tout droit, puis tournez à gauche
- Ensuite, prenez le métro
This shows:
- structure
- sequencing
- control of grammar
8. Practice (A1 → A2 Progression)
Exercise 1
Transform into imperative:
- Tu regardes → ______
- Vous tournez → ______
- Tu prends → ______
Exercise 2
Correct:
- Tu va à gauche
- Regardes ici
Exercise 3 (A2 Level)
Write 3 commands:
- direction
- instruction
- suggestion
9. Mini TEF Speaking Task
Situation: Give directions.
Model Answer
Allez tout droit.
Tournez à gauche.
Prenez le métro.
Continue Learning French
After mastering the French imperative, continue with:
FAQ
What is the French imperative?
It is a verb form used to give commands without a subject.
Do we use “tu” or “vous”?
No. The subject is removed.
What is special about -ER verbs?
The “-s” is removed in the tu form.
Is this important for TEF Canada?
Yes. It is used in directions and instructions.
Final Tip
To master the French imperative, remember:
- remove the subject
- use correct verb form
- keep sentences clear
This is functional French for real life.
