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Lesson 13: Commands and Imperatives in Dusun

In Dusun, commands or imperatives are expressed in two main ways:

1. Using the root verb – to tell someone to perform an action, usually in a general way
2. Using the -o suffix – to give a firmer command, often implying a specific object or urgency

These forms are common in daily conversation, especially among family, friends, or in casual situations.

✅ 1. Root Verb – General Imperative (No Focused Object)

Using just the base/root verb gives a neutral or general instruction. It often encourages someone to perform an action freely — without focusing on any particular object or target. This form is common when prompting someone to act for their own benefit.

• Tangkus! – Run! (e.g., for exercise or to warm up)
• Akan! – Eat! (in general, fill your stomach)
• Inum! – Drink! (go get a drink, not pointing at anything)

It simply suggests “Do the action,” not “Do this specific thing.”

✅ 2. Suffix -o – Specific or Emphatic Imperative

Adding the suffix -o makes the command more forceful or pointed. It often implies that there is a specific object — either visible, known, or mentioned earlier. It can also show urgency.

• Akano ti sada! – Eat this fish!
• Inumo ino waig – Drink that water
• Bobogo! – Hit it!

Even if the object isn’t spoken, -o usually signals that something is being pointed at, offered, or expected to be acted on.

👉 Many verbs in the Dusun Dictionary on this site also include their imperative forms, so learners can observe how commands are naturally structured in real sentences.