imperativo
“imperativo” means “urgent” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
urgent, mandatory
Also: commanding
📝 In Action
Es imperativo que tomemos una decisión hoy mismo.
B2It is urgent that we make a decision this very day.
Me habló con un tono imperativo que me molestó.
C1He spoke to me with a commanding tone that annoyed me.
La protección del medio ambiente es un deber imperativo.
B2Protecting the environment is a mandatory duty.
the imperative
Also: command
📝 In Action
En esta lección vamos a aprender el imperativo de los verbos en -ar.
A2In this lesson, we are going to learn the command form for -ar verbs.
¡Dime la verdad! 'Dime' está en imperativo.
A2Tell me the truth! 'Dime' is in the command form.
El imperativo moral nos dicta ayudar a los demás.
C1The moral command (duty) tells us to help others.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: imperativo
Question 1 of 3
If your boss says a task is 'imperativo,' what does she mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'imperativus,' which comes from 'imperare' meaning 'to command.' It is the same root that gave us 'empire' and 'emperor.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'imperativo' always used for grammar?
No! While it's a very common term in Spanish class, in daily life it's often used as an adjective to mean 'absolutely necessary' or 'urgent.'
Does 'imperativo' sound rude when speaking?
The noun (the verb form) can sound blunt, but the adjective is just a formal way to say something is important. Context and tone of voice matter most!
Is it the same as 'obligatorio'?
They are very close. 'Obligatorio' specifically means there is a rule or law, while 'imperativo' often feels more like a natural or logical urgency (though it can also be used for legal duties).