たまえdo it (an old-fashioned order)
A man's order to someone below him, in the speech of a few generations ago: 座りたまえ, "sit down". Today it lives in novels, manga and anime, in dramas set a century or so ago, and in jokes. It is one to recognize, not to say.
Sit down there. Let me hear what you have to say.
No need to hold back. Come on in.
How to form it
Verb ます-stem + たまえ
座ります → 座りたまえ, 見ます → 見たまえ, します → したまえ, 来ます → 来たまえ.
- Who says it
- In stories, a boss, a professor, an officer or a detective: an older man sure of his rank.
- Said to
- Someone junior, often called 君. In older novels, a friend too.
In use
See for yourself.
Don't rush your answer. Think it over carefully.
Come to my office tomorrow morning, would you.
てくれたまえ is the same man asking a favor. Asking you not to, he says ないでくれたまえ.
Please don't misunderstand me.
a friend, joking
It's my treat today. Order whatever you like.
Calm, not kind
It sounds well-bred beside the rough 座れ, but it takes for granted that the other person will obey. It isn't a "please", and nobody says it to a teacher or a boss. Said in earnest today, it sounds like someone playing a part.
Not said: 先生、
(Please have a seat, Professor.)
どうぞ、座ってください.
Close neighbours
なさいN4
Today's order from above, from parents and teachers. It is made the same way.
First, read the instructions.
Check yourself
1Where would you meet this line?
君、
Choose an answer to see why.
2Which one fits?
君も
Choose an answer to see why.
More detail
It is sometimes written 給え. The word is much older than the order: in prayers it still asks a god, with respect.
O God, grant hope to those who are lost.
More sentences
First, read the report.
Choose one that you like.
Don't worry. Carry on with your plan.
Those of you who are ready, set off first.
Now then, tell me your reasons.