What does "imperative" mean?

1. (essential or urgent) extremely important or urgent; something that must be done immediately. 2. (giving a command) speaking in a way that sounds like you are giving a firm order. 3. (an essential duty) something that is very important and must be done for moral or practical reasons.

imperative

adj. · n.

US //ˌɪmˈpɛɹətɪv// UK //ɪmpˈɛɹətˌɪv// im·per·a·tive

1 essential or urgent (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

extremely important or urgent; something that must be done immediately.

of vital importance; crucial or essential. Often used in formal contexts to describe an unavoidable requirement.

Example

It is imperative that you finish the report before the meeting starts.

Example

In the face of rising sea levels, it is imperative that coastal cities invest in robust flood defences immediately.
- optional
- unimportant
2 giving a command (adj.)
C1 Advanced Formal

speaking in a way that sounds like you are giving a firm order.

expressing a command or order; authoritative or peremptory in tone.

Example

The teacher used an imperative tone to stop the students from talking.

Example

The captain issued his instructions in an imperative voice that left no room for hesitation or debate among the crew.
- authoritative
- commanding
- submissive
- suggestive

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3 an essential duty (n.)
C1 Advanced Academic Formal

something that is very important and must be done for moral or practical reasons.

an essential or urgent thing; a duty or obligation that cannot be ignored.

Example

Improving the school system is a social imperative for the new government.

Example

The company viewed environmental sustainability not just as a marketing tool, but as a strategic and moral imperative.

Origin

Borrowed from Latin imperātīvus.