directive sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "directive sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about grammar or writing, specifically when referring to sentences that give commands or instructions. Example: "A directive sentence is often used to instruct someone to perform a specific action, such as 'Please close the door.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Leo and I sat on the wood floor, with the back door open to the sound of the robins, and played another round of Bingo, or checkers, or (so help me) Mousetrap, until Joshua came shuffling in, gruff and rumple-headed — like me without coffee — and issued his own directives, one sentence budding into the next: Now.

The New Yorker

In 2009, Guatemala introduced the sexual exploitation and human trafficking law, which defines sex with a girl under 14 as rape in all circumstances and includes strict directives for sentencing and how to assist victims of sexual violence.

The Guardian

Not only had Google agreed to remove considerable political content from google.cn, but Microsoft had disabled some blogging activity critical of China and Yahoo had handed over the identity of an e-mail user who had shared a propaganda directive; the user was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The New York Times

Not only had Google agreed to remove considerable political content from its Chinese service, but Microsoft had disabled some blogging activity critical of China, and Yahoo had handed over the identity of an e-mail user who had shared a propaganda directive; the user was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

The New York Times

In a report released in August this year, India's Law Commission, an advisory body of legal experts, criticized the court's directive, saying that the death sentence in India is to be used "only in very exceptional and rare cases," when "aggravating and mitigating circumstances" are found.

The New York Times

I can't make sense of the words even as I read them out loud and try to isolate each sentence as a separate directive.

Vice

With recent changes to criminal justice policy, including Attorney General Jeff Sessions' directive to prosecutors to pursue longer sentences for drug offenders and increased immigration enforcement, the Brennan Center expects the federal prison population will likely increase sharply in 2018.

Vice

One, a journalist named Shi Tao, was later given a 10-year sentence for leaking a secret propaganda directive.

The New York Times

First came the directive to refrain from certain federal mandatory minimum sentences in the war on drugs.

Vice

Under a Justice Department directive, fewer white-collar and nonviolent criminals will be sentenced to halfway houses and other "community corrections centers" and more will be locked up in federal prisons.

The New York Times

More importantly, McCurdy said, was Holder's directive, and even more important than that is the Smarter Sentencing Act.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to sentences that give commands, prefer using "imperative sentence" or "command sentence" as they are more commonly recognized and understood. "Directive sentence" is grammatically sound but less conventional.

Common error

Avoid using "directive sentence" interchangeably with any sentence that offers information or states a fact. This term specifically refers to sentences that instruct or command, not merely inform.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "directive sentence" is to categorize a type of sentence based on its purpose: to give directions or commands. While Ludwig's AI recognizes the phrase as grammatically correct, its usage is less common than alternatives like "imperative sentence".

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "directive sentence" is grammatically sound, it's not the most common way to refer to sentences that issue commands or instructions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct but less frequently used than alternatives like "imperative sentence" or "command sentence". When writing or discussing grammar, consider these more recognized terms for clarity. Although understandable, its infrequent appearance may lead to confusion; therefore, favor other terms unless the context specifically calls for "directive sentence". It's more often encountered in formal or educational settings where precise linguistic categorization is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Imperative sentence

Replaces "directive" with "imperative", focusing on the grammatical mood of a command.

Command sentence

More direct and common synonym for a sentence that issues a command.

Instructing sentence

Emphasizes the action of instructing rather than directing.

Sentence giving direction

Rephrases the concept to focus on the act of providing direction.

Sentence with a command

Specifies the presence of a command within the sentence.

Prescriptive sentence

Highlights the prescriptive nature, indicating what should be done.

Rule-giving sentence

Emphasizes the sentence's function in establishing a rule.

Sentence providing instructions

Focuses on the act of providing detailed instructions.

Guiding sentence

Highlights the sentence's role in guiding actions or thoughts.

Sentence of command

Uses a more formal structure to describe a commanding sentence.

FAQs

What is a "directive sentence"?

A "directive sentence" is a sentence that gives a command or instruction. It tells someone to do something. A more common term for this type of sentence is an "imperative sentence".

How does a "directive sentence" differ from other types of sentences?

Unlike declarative sentences (statements), interrogative sentences (questions), or exclamatory sentences (expressions of emotion), a "directive sentence" aims to initiate action. It is structured to prompt a specific response or behavior.

What are some alternatives to "directive sentence"?

Alternatives include "command sentence", "imperative sentence", or simply referring to it as a sentence that gives a direction. These terms are more frequently used and easily understood.

Can you provide examples of a "directive sentence"?

Examples of directive sentences include "Close the door", "Please submit your report by Friday", and "Do not enter". These sentences directly instruct or command someone to perform a particular action.