な
Meanings
- Don't do something
- Prohibitive imperative
- Do not (casual prohibition)
About this pattern
Explanation
The particle/ending な attached to the dictionary form of a verb is a casual, masculine-protective prohibition. It means 'Don’t do X' and is used for direct admonitions or short commands directed at someone. It is common in conversation among friends, family, or peers and can sound strong or blunt, so use with care. It is not used in polite or formal contexts (use ないでください or 〜てはいけません instead). Note that this form is limited to verbs; it does not apply to adjectives or nouns as-is.
Learn in context
Example sentences
Don’t smoke here.
Don’t go. Don’t leave the classroom.
Don't place your wallet on the desk.
Be quiet. Don’t talk loudly.
Don’t believe tales of ghosts.
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More N5 patterns
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View detailsalso; too; as well; even; either; neither
View detailsthis (near the speaker); this thing; this one
View detailsthat; that thing (near the listener); the thing referred to earlier
View details