is an imperative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is an imperative" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when discussing grammar or sentence structure. Example: "In this sentence, 'shut the door' is an imperative, as it gives a direct command to the listener."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

An independent, objective, analysis about special access is an imperative, and it certainly doesn't exist today.

Huffington Post

"Overcoming history is an imperative for us".

The New York Times

"Dansons ensemble!" is an imperative everyone understands.

Independent

It is an imperative that Joseph Becker understands.

The New York Times

But it is an imperative which cannot be ducked.

The Guardian

"But there is an imperative that we be heard".

The New York Times

From the individual's point of view, survival is an imperative.

The Economist

It is an imperative commandment of Arsenal matches this season: Giroud shalt not get injured.

The Guardian - Sport

I myself am still far from someone for whom sustainability is an imperative.

The Guardian

When a client is in crisis, she said, there is an imperative to act.

The New York Times

Within this context there is an imperative to act to eliminate slavery.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience when using "is an imperative". While impactful, it can come across as forceful. Ensure it aligns with your tone and the reader's expectations.

Common error

While effective, frequent use of "is an imperative" can dilute its impact. Reserve it for situations where the necessity is genuinely critical to maintain its strength in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is an imperative" functions as a predicative expression, asserting that something is absolutely necessary or critically important. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use across various domains to emphasize the need for specific actions or conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is an imperative" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that emphasizes the critical necessity of something. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is particularly common in News & Media and Science contexts. While its usage spans various domains, its formal tone is best suited for professional and academic writing. When deploying this phrase, consider the potential for overuse and aim for balance by occasionally incorporating alternatives like "is essential" or "is crucial" to maintain impact. Remember to reserve "is an imperative" for when the urgency is genuinely paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is essential

Replaces 'imperative' with a more common term, reducing the intensity slightly.

is crucial

Similar to 'essential', but highlights the potential for serious consequences if ignored.

is a necessity

Focuses on the indispensable nature of something.

is vital

Emphasizes the importance for continued existence or effectiveness.

is indispensable

Highlights that something cannot be done without.

is paramount

Indicates that something is of the highest importance.

is mandatory

Stresses that something is required by rule or law.

is a must

An informal way of saying something is absolutely necessary.

cannot be avoided

Focuses on the inevitability and need to confront something.

is non-negotiable

Highlights that something cannot be changed or compromised.

FAQs

How can I use "is an imperative" in a sentence?

Use "is an imperative" to highlight something critically important or necessary. For example, "Data security "is an imperative" for any business handling sensitive information."

What are some alternatives to "is an imperative"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is essential", "is crucial", or "is a necessity".

When is it appropriate to use "is an imperative" instead of "is important"?

"Is an imperative" conveys a stronger sense of urgency and necessity than "is important". Use "is an imperative" when the outcome depends critically on the action or requirement.

Is "is an imperative" formal or informal language?

"Is an imperative" is considered formal language. In more casual settings, you might prefer phrases like "is a must" or "can't be skipped".