Formation of Imperative Sentences

The construction of imperative sentences in Polish grammar requires knowledge of verb conjugation. Each verb consists of a stem and an ending, and the formation of imperative sentences depends on the conjugation group and verb stem.

First Conjugation Group

For verbs belonging to the first conjugation group, remove the infinitive ending -ć, then add the appropriate imperative endings:

• 2nd person singular: -j
• 2nd person plural: -cie
• 3rd person singular and plural: -niech + verb stem

Example: pisać (to write)

• pisj (write! – singular)
• piscie (write! – plural)
• niech pis… (let … write!)

Second Conjugation Group

For verbs belonging to the second conjugation group, replace the infinitive ending -ć with the appropriate endings:

• 2nd person singular: -ń
• 2nd person plural: -cie
• 3rd person singular and plural: -niech + verb stem

Example: czytać (to read)

• czytań (read! – singular)
• czytacie (read! – plural)
• niech czyta… (let … read!)

Usage of Imperative Sentences

Imperative sentences in Polish can serve a variety of purposes depending on the context, as demonstrated below:

Commands

Imperative sentences are frequently used when giving direct orders or instructions:

• Zamknij drzwi! (Close the door!)
• Słuchaj uważnie! (Listen carefully!)

Requests

They may also be employed to make polite requests or favors:

• Przynies mi kawę, proszę. (Bring me coffee, please.)
• Podaj mi sól. (Pass me the salt.)

Advice

Imperative sentences can be utilized when offering suggestions or advice:

• Nie kręć się. (Do not spin.)
• Wypij wodę. (Drink the water.)

Prohibitions

Additionally, imperative sentences can express prohibitions:

• Nie dotykaj tego! (Do not touch that!)
• Nie wchodź tam! (Do not go in there!)

Understanding imperative sentences is crucial for mastering Polish grammar. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, one can effectively communicate commands, requests, advice, and prohibitions in Polish.