ないほうがいい
JLPT Level: N5
Meanings
It would be better not to
Shouldn't do (something)
Usage
V-ないほうがいい
Explanation
ないほうがいい is used to give advice or a recommendation to avoid doing something. It softly suggests that skipping or not performing the action is better, often when the action could cause trouble or be unnecessary. The subject is usually implied (you, someone, or a situation) and the verb is in its negative form before ほうがいい. It can be used in casual or polite contexts depending on the surrounding sentence. Common patterns include expressing personal advice or warning in everyday situations. Examples show typical scenarios like avoiding risky actions, wasting time, or taking care of health.
夜遅くまでゲームをしないほうがいい。
よるおそくまでゲームをしないほうがいい。
It's better not to play games until late.
風邪をひいているときは外出しないほうがいい。
かぜをひいているときはがいしゅつしないほうがいい。
When you have a cold, it's better not to go out.
この薬は空腹時に飲まないほうがいい。
このくすりはくうふくじにのまないほうがいい。
It's better not to take this medicine on an empty stomach.
約束を忘れてしまうから、早く提出しないほうがいい。
やくそくをわすれてしまうから、はやくていしゅつしないほうがいい。
It's better not to procrastinate on an important deadline.