Giving Orders

• One form for giving orders in Spanish is the use of the imperative mood. This form can be used to make demands, give instructions or make requests.

• The positive commands use the base form of the verb (the infinitive), but without the final -r. For -ar verbs, add -a for ‘tú’, -e for ‘usted’, -ad for ‘vosotros’, -en for ‘ustedes’. For -er and -ir verbs, add -e for ‘tú’, -a for ‘usted’, -ed/-id for ‘vosotros’, -an for ‘ustedes’.

• Negative commands use a different ending. For -ar verbs, use -es for ‘tú’, -e for ‘usted’, -éis for ‘vosotros’, -en for ‘ustedes’. For -er/-ir verbs, use -as for ‘tú’, -a for ‘usted’, -áis/-id for ‘vosotros’, -an for ‘ustedes’.

• With verbs that have irregular yo forms, the affirmative ‘tú’ form keeps the irregularity: ‘Ven’ (come) from ‘venir’, ‘Ten’ (have) from ‘tener’, ‘Sal’ (leave) from ‘salir’, etc.

• Some verbs are completely irregular in the imperative: ‘di’ (say/tell), ‘haz’ (do/make), ‘sé’ (be), ‘sal’ (leave) ‘ve’ (go).

• When using reflexive verbs in the imperative, attach the reflexive pronoun to the end of affirmative commands (Lávate las manos) and place it before the verb in negative commands (No te laves las manos).

• Spanish also often makes use of the subjunctive mood to give orders in an indirect or more polite way.

• In general, remember to always check the verb conjugation and irregularities for the person you’re addressing. Spanish allows for different levels of formality, so the correct form depends on the context.

• Consider also cultural aspects of language use. The Spanish often give orders in a direct way which can sound rude in English. Don’t assume that translating directly from English will get the tone right!

• Lastly, practicing is crucial! Try giving orders in a variety of contexts - both formal and informal - to get the hang of this aspect of Spanish grammar.