0
Debpriya De Posted 16 years ago
Grammar

Imperative sentences

I have a question regarding imperative sentences.
Why do we include the subject "You" at times, when it is clearly understood, as in "Don't you stare at me ." ?
And also, why is the subject - verb order reversed ?
  

Top answer

" ? It only happens in negative imperatives. It's used to show a high degree of displeasure and some contempt for the person addressed, and to make the command more threatening.

— CalifJim

  • " ?
  • It only happens in negative imperatives.
  • It's used to show a high degree of displeasure and some contempt for the person addressed, and to make the command more threatening.
  • You can also add "dare": Don't you dare stare at me!
  • ) Debpriya De why is the subject - verb order reversed ?
Free · every Monday

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

New words, one handy idiom, and a 2-minute quiz — delivered to your inbox to keep your streak alive.

1 Answers
0
Debpriya DeWhy do we include the subject "You" at times, when it is clearly understood, as in "Don't you stare at me ." ?
It only happens in negative imperatives. It's used to show a high degree of displeasure and some contempt for the person addressed, and to make the command more threatening. You can also add "dare":

Don't you dare stare at me!
0

Related Questions