な
(na)
Don’t
Usage Frequency
FAIRLY COMMON
N4
JLPT
な
(na)
Don’t
Usage Frequency
FAIRLY COMMON
N4
JLPT
Definition
A casual way to prohibit or tell someone not to do something.
How to Use
Verb dictionary form + な
Common Usage
Use the verb in its dictionary form and add な to prohibit the action.
Context, Limitations and Specificities
When to use?
Used in casual speech to tell someone not to do something, often by people in authority or with close relationships.
Limitations and specificities
This form is often seen as abrupt or impolite if used with people who are not close friends or juniors.
Example Sentences
食べるな。
たべるな。
taberu na.
Don't eat.
行くな。
いくな。
iku na.
Don't go.
見るな。
みるな。
miru na.
Don't look.
泣くな。
なくな。
naku na.
Don't cry.
触るな。
さわるな。
sawaru na.
Don't touch.
忘れるな。
わすれるな。
wasureru na.
Don't forget.
話すな。
はなすな。
hanasu na.
Don't talk.
止まるな。
とまるな。
tomaru na.
Don't stop.
走るな。
はしるな。
hashiru na.
Don't run.
遊ぶな。
あそぶな。
asobu na.
Don't play.