Meaning & Definition of word "Imperative"
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Imperative
/ɪmˈpɛr.ə.tɪv/
noun:
- 1. an essential or urgent thing.
- Example: Staying healthy is a personal imperative for many people.
- 2. a command or order.
- Example: The military operates under a strict imperative to follow orders.
adjective:
- 1. of vital importance; crucial.
- Example: It is imperative that we meet the deadline to ensure project success.
- 2. giving an authoritative command; peremptory.
- Example: The manager issued an imperative order for all employees to attend the meeting.
Etymology
Derived from Latin 'imperativus', from 'imperare' meaning 'to command'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
imperative mood:
The grammatical mood used to express commands.
taking imperative action:
Taking necessary steps that are urgently required.
it's imperative to...:
It is crucial or necessary to do something.
Related Words
command:
An authoritative order.
requirement:
Something that is needed or demanded.
necessity:
The state of being required or indispensable.
Slang Meanings of imperative
Meaning: Mandatory
Example Sentence: It's imperative that you show up on time, or else you'll miss the bus!
Meaning: Essential or crucial
Example Sentence: In this game, knowing the rules is imperative if you want to win.