Introduction

Relevance of the Theme

Negative Imperative: a domain of opposites, where the expression of prohibition, denial, and non-realization takes center stage. The negative imperative is one of the most significant rings of grammar that involves the art of communication. It distinguishes itself from the affirmative imperative, creating a contrast, an alternative to what is allowed, to what is done.

Understanding the negative imperative is understanding the powerful tool we have to express negative orders and instructions, as well as advice, requests, and prohibitions. It is the art of "do not do", of "be cautious", of "avoid". This grammatical structure is not only a language rule but also a reflection of the values and norms of a society.

Contextualization

In the vast territory of the Portuguese language, the verbal construction known as "negative imperative" resides in the "Imperative Mood" section of syntax, a crucial chapter in the study of grammar. It is specifically located in the spectrum of the imperative mood, which instructs, orders, advises, prohibits, indicates a request, a suggestion.

Therefore, it is a theme closely connected to how we relate to others, to how we convey our desires and instructions for real life. According to the 8th-grade curriculum of Elementary School, the study of the negative imperative is an integral part of the evolution of students' writing and speaking, directly affecting their expression and comprehension skills in the Portuguese language.

Within the broader curriculum of the Portuguese discipline, the study of the negative imperative is a fundamental component of progression from simple to complex. It is a necessary step towards full mastery of the language, providing students with the necessary tools to create a variety of sentences and expressions, thus enhancing their language skills.

Theoretical Development

Components

1. Verb: Negative Imperative: In the imperative mood, the verb is the central piece. In the case of the negative imperative, the verb is expressed in negation, forming the idea of prohibition or hindrance. While the affirmative imperative asks, demands, the negative imperative advises against, prohibits.

2. Negation Term: The negation term "não" precedes the verb in the negative imperative. This addition of the negation term transforms the order or instruction into a prohibition or contrary advice.

3. Sentence Structure: The structure of the sentence in the negative imperative consists of não + verb, followed by the rest of the sentence. It is important to emphasize that, despite the negation, the order or instruction is still directed towards the subject of the sentence.

Key Terms

1. Infinitive: The verb form that indicates the action, state, or process in a generic way, without reference to time, mode, or person. In the negative imperative, the verb is usually presented in its infinitive form.

2. Subject of the Sentence: Who or what performs the action of the verb in the sentence. In the negative imperative, the subject of the action is implicit in the sentence.

3. Negative Imperative Adjective: The adjective that qualifies the expression presented in the negative imperative form. It serves to identify the type of instruction, order, or prohibition being conveyed.

Examples and Cases

1. Examples of Negative Imperatives:

   • "Do not touch the sign." - Expression of prohibition.
   • "Do not talk to strangers." - Safety advice.
   • "Do not buy the product without checking the expiration date first." - Instruction to avoid a mistake.

2. Identification of Components of the Negative Imperative:

   • In the sentence "Do not touch the sign.", the verb is "touch", the negation term is "do not", and the subject is implicit - referring to a person being instructed not to touch the sign.
   • In the sentence "Do not talk to strangers.", the verb is "talk", the negation term is "do not", and the subject is also implicit - referring to a person being advised not to talk to strangers.
   • In the sentence "Do not buy the product without checking the expiration date first.", the verb is "buy", the negation term is "do not", and the subject, once again, is implicit - referring to someone who should follow the instruction not to buy the product without checking the expiration date.

Detailed Summary

Key Points

• Definition of Negative Imperative: It is the verbal form used to express prohibitions, negative instructions, and advice. This grammatical aspect is defined by the structure "não + verb", reinforcing the negation of the action.

• Negation Term: The function of "não" as a negation term is crucial in the formation of the negative imperative. It transforms an order or instruction into advice or prohibition.

• Sentence Structure: In the negative imperative, the order or instruction is expressed through a sentence with the structure "não + verb", where the subject of the action, although often omitted, is implied.

• Identification of Components: In the study of the negative imperative, it is important to identify the constituent elements of the expression, such as the verb, the negation term, and the implicit subject. This skill is fundamental for the correct understanding and use of the grammatical structure.

Conclusions

• Mastering the negative imperative in the Portuguese language enhances our ability to express instructions, orders, and prohibitions in a more sophisticated and precise manner.

• The correct use of the negative imperative not only demonstrates a refined knowledge of our language but also reflects an understanding of the norms, rules, and values of a society.

Exercises

1. Identification of Negative Imperatives: Identify five negative imperatives in a text of your choice and provide the proper analysis of the components of each sentence (verb, negation term, implicit subject).

2. Transformation of Affirmative Imperatives into Negatives: Transform five affirmative imperatives that you create into negative imperatives (Ex: "Run!") and explain how the transformation process was carried out.

3. Creation of Sentences with Negative Imperatives: Create five sentences with negative imperatives, each expressing a different prohibition, negative instruction, or advice. Remember to include the verb, the negation term, and the implicit subject in each sentence.