priority_high Grammar made simple
The imperative in Fon
Giving an order, offering advice, expressing a prohibition: the imperative in fɔ̀ngbè is built without a pronoun (singular) or with “mi” (plural). A simple method, a single rule.
Verb alone = direct order
The bare verb (no pronoun) at the start of the sentence = an order addressed to « you » (one person).
Mi + verb = order to several people
To address a group, or to be polite, you add mi (you) before the verb.
Ma + verb + ǎ = prohibition
To forbid: ma + verb + ǎ.
Politeness tip
The bare Fon imperative can sound abrupt. Add kɛnklɛn (please) before or after to soften it: Wǎ kɛnklɛn (Come, please).
Three rules, every order
Verb alone (you, singular) / Mi + verb (you, plural) / Ma + verb + ǎ (prohibition) — you can phrase any order in Fon.
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- Getting started in Fon: the 4-step method — tones, first words, resources
- The Fon video course: see the program — 79 lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, taught in French
- What is your Fon level? — the free 15-question test