Usage Notes:

For imperatives, "polite" is a relative term. Note that you cannot politely command someone of equal or higher status. The plain forms here are really quite abrupt, apt to be heard in emergency situations or when emotions are running high, but they might also be encountered from a clear superior to an inferior. The "polite" forms also generally require a superior-inferior relationship, but are more gentle, and would be used, for instance, from a mother to her child, or from an older sibling to a younger one. There are exceptions to these restrictions, especially in emotional situations, or differences in what is tolerated from intimates.

In any polite conversation, if an imperative is called for, the request forms should be used instead.

Note that the ichidan imperative ending in -yo is an older, more literary form not likely to be heard in conversation. It might be found in textbooks (instructions for exercises, for example), on tests, and so forth.

Usage Examples: