Meaning
This pattern is used to express strong prohibition or commands by adding な to the dictionary form of a verb. It carries a much harder tone than てはいけない, making it sound like a forceful order or emergency command. Because it's so direct and harsh, it's considered rude to use with superiors or elders except in urgent situations. Adding よ after な (なよ) can soften the tone if spoken with rising intonation.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 动词辞书形 | ＋な |
Examples
-
このチームに あなたが 必要だ。やめるな。
This team needs you. Don't quit. -
あそこは 危険です。行くな！
That place is dangerous. Don't go there! -
明日 大事な 試験が ある。勉強を 邪魔するなよ。
I have an important exam tomorrow. Don't disturb my studying.
Summary
- Attach な directly to verb dictionary form to create forceful prohibition
- Sounds much harsher than てはいけない; use only in emergencies with superiors
- Adding よ (なよ) with rising intonation softens the tone; flat intonation intensifies it