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Imperative vs Compulsive - What's the difference?

imperative | compulsive |

As adjectives the difference between imperative and compulsive

is that imperative is essential while compulsive is uncontrolled or reactive and unconscious.

As nouns the difference between imperative and compulsive

is that imperative is the grammatical mood expressing an order (see jussive). In English, the imperative form of a verb is the same as that of the bare infinitive while compulsive is one who exhibits compulsive behaviours.

imperative

English

Alternative forms

*

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • essential
  • It is imperative that you come here right now.
  • (computing theory) Having a semantics that incorporates mutable variables.
  • (grammar) of, or relating to the imperative mood
  • Expressing a command; authoritatively or absolutely directive.
  • imperative orders
  • * Bishop Hall
  • The suits of kings are imperative .

    Noun

  • (uncountable, grammar) The grammatical mood expressing an order (see jussive). In English, the imperative form of a verb is the same as that of the bare infinitive.
  • The verbs in sentences like "Do it!" and "Say what you like!" are in the imperative .
  • (countable, grammar) A verb in imperative mood.
  • (countable) An essential action, a must: something which is imperative.
  • Visiting Berlin is an imperative .
  • *
  • Synonyms

    * (grammatical mood) imperative mood

    Derived terms

    * first imperative (Latin grammar) * second imperative (Latin grammar) * categorical imperative

    Coordinate terms

    * (in grammar) assertoric, interrogative

    compulsive

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • uncontrolled or reactive and unconscious
  • * 1990 , :
  • Under this Act, the term "disability" shall not include—...(2) compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or...
  • Having power to compel; exercising or applying compulsion.
  • * Sharp
  • Religion is inconsistent with all compulsive motives.

    Derived terms

    * compulsiveness

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • One who exhibits compulsive behaviours.