Imperative & Commands

Lesson 23 · ציווי

In modern spoken Hebrew, the future tense replaces the formal imperative. So instead of "shma!" (listen!), Israelis say "tishma" (you will listen). Each command has 3 forms: m. sg., f. sg., and plural.

Spoken vs literary, The classical imperative still exists in writing and signs (שְׁמַע, שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל "Hear O Israel"), but everyday speech uses future-as-imperative. Both are taught here.

Common Spoken Commands (future-form)

Imperative & Commands

Common Spoken Commands (future-form)

Polite Requests (please / would you...)

Negative Commands ("don't...")

Classical Imperative (signs, formal, songs)

Useful Imperatives: Daily

Example Phrases