irrealis imperative

[Scott Robertson]

In Cebuano and other Visayan dialects there are many imperative forms.  
The no-time imperative is standard but irrealis forms are very common 
too.  Here are some paired examples with the tenseless on top, followed 
by the irrealis.  The translations are my best guess as to the 
difference in nuance.  Depending on context, the irrealis may or may not 
have an imperative connotation.  A wordier but less common example will 
follow in some cases, showing the irrealis in a similar sentence that 
has a similar literal meaning without the imperative shading.

Pagsuot! Get dressed!
Magsuot ka.  You WILL get dressed!

Imna ang tambal!  Take the medicine!
Imnon nimo ang tambal.  You need to take the medicine!
Angay mong imnon ang tambal.  You should take the medicine.

Imni ang tubig!  Drink some of the water!
Imnan nimo ang tubig.  You have to drink some of the water!
Kinahanglan mong imnan ang tubig.  You need to drink some of the water.



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