Meaning
〜なさい is used to give instructions or commands, formed by adding なさい to the masu-stem of a verb. Unlike casual commands or prohibitions, this pattern is more formal and instructional, typically used by parents addressing children or teachers directing students. For general situations with unfamiliar people, てください is more polite and natural.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 动词ます形 | ＋なさい |
Examples
-
練習問題に 答えなさい。
Answer the practice questions. -
テレビを 見ないで、早く 食べなさい。
Don't watch TV and eat quickly. -
ご飯を 食べる前に、手を 洗いなさい。
You must wash your hands before eating.
Summary
- Attach なさい to the masu-stem (ます form without ます) to form instructions
- Commonly used by authority figures like parents and teachers when directing children or students
- More direct than てください; use てください for polite requests to unfamiliar people