Important Questions: Commands and Requests | English Grammar for Class 9 PDF Download

Q.1. What is a command? Provide an example of a command and explain its purpose.

Ans: A command is a type of sentence that expresses a strong request or directive. It is used to give someone an order or to instruct them to do something. For example, "Please close the door quietly" is a command. Its purpose is to direct someone to perform a specific action.

Q.2. Differentiate between a command and a request.

Ans: A command is a strong and direct statement that tells someone to do something. It is usually expressed with an imperative verb and does not leave room for negotiation. On the other hand, a request is a polite way of asking someone to do something. It allows the person the option to refuse or fulfill the request. Requests are often formed using modals like "can," "could," or "would."

Q.3. Rewrite the following request as a command: "Could you please turn off the lights?"

Ans: "Turn off the lights, please."

Q.4. How can you make a command more polite?

Ans: To make a command more polite, you can add words like "please" or use a polite tone of voice. For example, instead of saying "Give me the pen," you can say "Please, may I have the pen?" The use of polite language and a respectful manner can make a command sound less forceful and more courteous.

Q.5. Provide an example of a command used in everyday life and explain its importance.

Ans: An example of a command used in everyday life is "Brush your teeth before going to bed." This command is important because it promotes good oral hygiene and helps maintain healthy teeth and gums. Following this command helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

Q.6. Explain the concept of commands and requests in English grammar. How are they different from each other? Provide examples to illustrate your answer.

• Commands and requests are two types of sentences used to give instructions or ask someone to do something.
• A command is a direct and authoritative statement that tells someone what to do. It is usually expressed in the imperative form of the verb. For example, "Close the door" or "Study for the exam."
• On the other hand, a request is a polite way of asking someone to do something. It is expressed using modals like "can," "could," "would," or the phrase "please." For example, "Can you pass me the salt?" or "Could you please help me with my homework?"
• The main difference between commands and requests is the level of authority and politeness. Commands are more direct and assertive, while requests are more polite and considerate of the other person's willingness to help.
• It's important to use the appropriate tone and language based on the situation and the relationship between the speaker and the listener.

Q.7. Discuss the various ways to form commands in English grammar. Provide examples to support your explanation.

There are several ways to form commands in English grammar:

• Use the base form of the verb: For example, "Sit down" or "Speak slowly."
• Add "do not" before the base form to form negative commands: For example, "Do not touch the hot stove."
• Begin the sentence with "Let's" to make a suggestion or proposal: For example, "Let's go for a walk."
• Use the imperative form of the verb "be" to give commands with "be" verbs: For example, "Be quiet" or "Be careful."
• In all these cases, the tone of the command depends on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the listener. It is important to use appropriate language and tone while giving commands to avoid sounding rude or disrespectful.

Q.8. Explain the concept of indirect commands and provide examples to illustrate your answer.

• Indirect commands are sentences that express a command or instruction in a more polite or indirect manner.
• Indirect commands are often formed using phrases such as "I would like you to," "Could you," or "Would you mind."
• These phrases are followed by the base form of the verb or a verb in the infinitive form.
• For example, instead of saying "Close the window," an indirect command could be "Could you please close the window?"
• Another example is "I would like you to finish your homework" instead of "Finish your homework."
• Indirect commands are used to convey requests or instructions in a more polite and considerate manner, especially in formal or polite situations where direct commands might be inappropriate or impolite.

Q.9. Discuss the difference between direct and indirect requests in English grammar. Provide examples to support your explanation.

• Direct requests are straightforward and to the point, whereas indirect requests are more polite and considerate.
• Direct requests usually use imperative sentences or questions without any polite phrases. For example, "Pass me the pen" or "Give me some water."
• Indirect requests, on the other hand, use polite phrases such as "Could you," "Would you mind," or "I would appreciate it if." For example, "Could you please pass me the pen?" or "Would you mind giving me some water?"
• Direct requests are commonly used among friends, family, or in casual situations where politeness is not a significant concern.
• Indirect requests are more appropriate in formal settings, when asking someone of higher authority, or when politeness is essential to maintain a respectful conversation.

Q.10. Explain the importance of using appropriate tone and language while giving commands or making requests. Provide examples to support your answer.

• Using appropriate tone and language while giving commands or making requests is essential to maintain effective communication and build positive relationships.
• If commands are given in a harsh or demanding tone, they may be perceived as rude or disrespectful, leading to conflicts or negative reactions. For example, saying "Clean your room now!" in a harsh tone may create resistance or resentment.
• On the other hand, using polite language and a respectful tone when making requests helps create a friendly and cooperative atmosphere. For example, saying "Could you please help me with the dishes?" in a polite tone is more likely to receive a positive response.
• It's important to consider the context, the relationship with the person, and their willingness to comply with the request or command.
• By using appropriate tone and language, we can convey our needs or instructions effectively, while also maintaining a harmonious and respectful communication environment.