jussive
Definition
Adjective:
- Of or relating to a grammatical mood that expresses a command, request, or exhortation: In linguistics, the "jussive" mood is used to express a directive or a strong suggestion, often in languages that distinguish it from the imperative mood.
- Pertaining to a verb form that indicates a command or a wish: It can refer to a verbal construction that conveys an order, a proposal, or a desire.
Noun:
- A grammatical mood or verb form that expresses a command, request, or exhortation: The "jussive" is a specific mood found in certain languages (e.g., Arabic, Hebrew, and some African languages) that is used for issuing directives or expressing wishes.
Usage Examples
Adjective:
- In Classical Arabic, the jussive mood is used for prohibitions and commands. (The grammatical mood that expresses commands or prohibitions.)
- The jussive verb form in Hebrew can indicate a request or a strong suggestion. (The verb form related to commands or exhortations.)
Noun:
- The jussive is distinct from the imperative because it can express a wish or a polite command. (The grammatical mood itself.)
- Languages like Amharic use the jussive to convey indirect requests. (The mood used for directives.)
Advanced Usage
"Jussive clause": a subordinate clause that expresses a command or wish.
- The sentence 'Let him go' contains a jussive clause. (A clause that uses a verb form to command or suggest.)
"Jussive subjunctive": a subjunctive mood used for jussive purposes in some languages.
- In Latin, the jussive subjunctive is used for polite commands, like 'veniat' (let him come). (A specific subjunctive form for directives.)
Variants and Related Words
Jussively (adverb): in a manner that expresses a command or request.
- He spoke jussively, leaving no room for argument. (In a commanding or exhortative way.)
Jussiveness (noun): the quality of being jussive.
- The jussiveness of his tone made the instruction clear. (The commanding nature of the utterance.)
Synonyms
- Imperatival: relating to the imperative mood (though jussive is broader, including wishes).
- Directive: serving to give direction or command.
- Exhortative: expressing strong encouragement or urging.
Related Idioms