Defining Imperative Sentences

An imperative sentence is a type of sentence structure used to give commands, make requests or offer advice. In the Welsh language, there are specific rules governing the formation of such sentences to convey the desired meaning precisely. By mastering these rules, you will effortlessly communicate your thoughts and commands in Welsh.

Forming Imperative Sentences: Affirmative and Negative

There are two primary forms of imperative sentences in Welsh: affirmative and negative. Let’s explore these two forms and their distinct usage.

Affirmative Imperative Sentences

Affirmative imperative sentences are used to give commands or make requests. The verb in an affirmative imperative sentence, which contains the action to be performed, should be in the base or stem form. For instance:

• Cer i’r siop. – Go to the shop.
• Bwara i mi. – Give it to me.

Take note that the subject is not explicitly mentioned as it is already understood to be the person being addressed.

Negative Imperative Sentences

Negative imperative sentences are used to issue prohibitions or prevent an action. To transform an affirmative imperative sentence into a negative one, simply add the negation marker peidiwch at the beginning of the sentence. For instance:

• Peidiwch â cherdded ar y glaswellt. – Don’t walk on the grass.
• Peidiwch â bwyta hyn. – Don’t eat this.

Determining the Verb Stem in Welsh Imperative Sentences

A crucial aspect of forming correct imperative sentences in Welsh is determining the verb stem. Welsh verbs have conjugated forms for different tense, mood, and person. In order to maintain the proper syntax, it is essential to utilize the appropriate verb stem. Follow these tips when determining the verb stem:

1. Remove the personal ending of the verb.
2. Identify any irregular verbs and memorize their stems as exceptions.
3. Know how different tenses affect the verb stem (i.e., present, past, and future).

Imperative Sentences with Object Pronouns

When using object pronouns in imperative sentences, they usually follow the verb. For example:

• Gweld hi. – See her.
• Dysgu i mi. – Teach me.
• Clywed eich barn chi. – Hear your opinion.

Politeness in Welsh Imperative Sentences

Politeness and respect play a significant role in the delivery of commands and requests in Welsh. Therefore, it is important to use appropriate language for the person you are addressing. Some common expressions to make your imperative sentences more polite include:

• Os gwelwch yn dda: – Please (lit. If you see well)
• Petaech cystal: – If you would be so kind

For example:

• Cer i’r siop, os gwelwch yn dda. – Go to the shop, please.
• Petaech cystal â gwirio’m gwaith. – If you would be so kind as to check my work.

Final Thoughts

Imperative sentences are an essential component of Welsh grammar. By following these guidelines and rules, you will become proficient in forming affirmative and negative imperative sentences, as well as incorporating politeness and object pronouns. Practice forming and using imperative sentences in Welsh grammar to boost your communication skills and elevate your mastery of the Welsh language.