Japanese grammar · ≈ JLPT N4 · Intermediate 1
〜な~na
strongly tell someone not to
Add 「な」 to the dictionary form in 「〜るな」 to urgently stop someone or give a stern warning.
How it works
Why is he stopping the other person? The prohibitive form means “don’t do it” and stops someone immediately in a dangerous situation.
For every verb group, add 「な」 to the dictionary form. The verb stays unchanged, so there are no new endings to memorize.
「な」 follows the dictionary form, not the ない form. To forbid movement, say 「動くな」, not 「動かないな」.
The prohibitive form sounds very strong. It is often used to stop someone urgently or give a stern warning, so use it carefully for everyday requests.
For an everyday request not to move, say 「動かないでください」. It is more polite than 「動くな」.
「あきらめるな！」 is encouragement, not a scolding. It urges someone to keep trying: “Don’t give up!”
「無理をするな！」 shows concern: “Don’t push yourself too hard.” A strong tone can also express care.
Example sentences
- あきらめるakirameruな！na
Don't give up!
- 無理muriをoするsuruな！na
Don't overdo it!
In a conversation
- A危ないから、そこを動くな！
A: It's dangerous, so don't move from there!
- Bわかりました。足元に気をつけます。
B: I understand. I'll watch my step.
- A
Check yourself
Level 1 · Recognise
Which sentence is correct?
Level 1 · Recognise
Listen and choose the meaning
Level 2 · Build
Put the words in order
Don't run inside the venue!
Level 3 · Use
What goes in the blank?
会場の中で____。
Do not run inside the venue.
More grammar in this theme
- 〜なstrongly tell someone not to