Imperatively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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imperatively

[ɪmˈpɛrətɪvli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in giving orders or commands

In a manner that expresses a command or order; authoritatively.

Synonyms

authoritatively, commandingly, domineeringly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
imperatively

Use when something must be done urgently and is of great importance. This word conveys a sense of necessity.

  • She spoke imperatively, insisting that the project must be completed by Friday
  • 'We must leave now,' he said imperatively
authoritatively

Suitable for situations where someone speaks with confidence and knowledge, showing they are an expert or in charge.

  • The professor spoke authoritatively on the subject of quantum physics
  • He authoritatively answered all the questions during the meeting
commandingly

Used to describe someone giving orders or instructions in a strong and confident manner, often in leadership roles.

  • The captain shouted commandingly to his troops
  • She took the stage commandingly, directing the audience's attention to her
domineeringly

Best used to describe someone who tries to control others in an overbearing or bossy way. This word often has a negative connotation.

  • He spoke domineeringly, leaving no room for her opinions
  • Her domineeringly tone during the meeting annoyed everyone

Examples of usage

  • The teacher imperatively instructed the students to be quiet during the exam.
  • She imperatively demanded that he leave the premises immediately.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a way that cannot be ignored

In a way that is impossible to avoid or overlook; urgently.

Synonyms

compulsorily, inevitably, urgently.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
imperatively

Used when something is absolutely necessary and must be done without fail, often in a commanding tone.

  • She spoke imperatively, insisting that the meeting start immediately.
  • The director addressed the team imperatively, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
urgently

Used when something needs to be done as soon as possible due to immediate importance or necessity.

  • He had to go to the hospital urgently after the accident.
  • The email stated that the report was needed urgently, so she started working on it immediately.
compulsorily

Used when something is required by law or a rule; it indicates an obligation that cannot be avoided.

  • All students must attend the class compulsorily according to the school regulations.
  • The new policy dictates that safety training is to be completed compulsorily by all employees.
inevitably

Used when something is certain to happen and cannot be avoided; it emphasizes the unavoidable nature of an event.

  • With such bad weather, the event was inevitably canceled.
  • As the deadline approached, the team inevitably had to work overtime to meet it.

Examples of usage

  • The alarm rang imperatively, signaling the need for immediate evacuation.
  • The doctor's tone was imperatively serious, conveying the severity of the situation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosopher Immanuel Kant argued for moral imperatives, which are actions one ought to take consistently and universally.
  • Kant distinguished between hypothetical and categorical imperatives, where the latter demands action regardless of personal desires.
  • Imperatives play a crucial role in ethical discourse, shaping how individuals perceive their responsibilities.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that when people perceive a command as imperative, their likelihood to comply increases significantly.
  • The way commands are phrased can affect obedience; imperatively stated tasks often yield quicker responses.
  • Psychological studies show that authoritative tone in messaging can lead to actions being taken more swiftly and efficiently.

Linguistics

  • Imperative sentences are unique in that they often omit the subject, making them direct and forceful.
  • In many languages, the imperative form can vary greatly depending on formal or informal contexts, showcasing cultural nuances.
  • Understanding the imperative mood is essential for learning commands in any new language.

Pop Culture

  • In popular films and books, characters often deliver imperative lines to drive the plot forward, showcasing urgency.
  • Catchphrases like 'Just do it' or 'Make it happen' embody the essence of an imperative in motivational contexts.
  • Imperatives are prevalent in social media culture, where concise commands help convey messages quickly (e.g., 'Like', 'Share').

Origin of 'imperatively'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'imperativus', meaning 'commanding', derived from 'imperare', which means 'to command'.
  • Used in English since the late 14th century, it has evolved to describe not just commands, but also urgent requests.
  • In grammatical terms, it classifies as a mood that expresses commands or requests.

The word 'imperatively' is derived from the adjective 'imperative,' which comes from the Latin word 'imperativus,' meaning 'expressing a command.' The adverb form 'imperatively' has been used in the English language to convey a sense of authority, urgency, or insistence, dating back to the 16th century. It is often employed in contexts where commands, orders, or instructions need to be emphasized or underscored with a sense of importance.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,873, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.