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imperative
This word carries a heavy weight of necessity and authority. When used as an adjective for importance, it suggests a non-negotiable requirement where failure to act would lead to a serious negative outcome. It is far more urgent than words like important or necessary, evoking a sense of immediate pressure. In a social or behavioral sense, it describes a tone of absolute power. It is not a request or a suggestion, but a demand. When used as a noun in philosophy or ethics, it describes a duty that must be followed regardless of personal desire, creating a framework of obligation.
Countable when referring to a specific duty or a grammatical form (a moral imperative). Uncountable when referring to the general quality of being urgent.
💬Conversación Casual
Running 5 late. Just need to touch base with the team first.
Cut the fluff, David. Getting here now is imperative.
Meanings
Of vital importance; crucial.
"It is imperative that we leave immediately to catch the flight."
Giving an authoritative command; peremptory.
"The sergeant spoke in an imperative tone that left no room for argument."
"The moral imperative to help those in need outweighs personal gain."
A grammatical mood that forms a command or request.
"In the sentence 'Shut the door', the verb is in the imperative mood."