Grammar - Grade 1 List View

Review these list items to study and edit your keyphrase and other memory aids.
Grammar Point
particle
prt 
A Keyphrase should be a short phrase that brings to mind and helps to remember the information on this frame.
な

don't

prohibitive; used with dictionary form verb

Verb Dictionary Form + な

The prohibitive particle な is used to command someone not to do something. It is a very strong, blunt, and often aggressive way to give an order. Because of its harsh tone, it is primarily used by male speakers in informal situations, such as between close friends, from a superior to a subordinate, or in moments of anger.

To form a negative command, simply attach な directly to the dictionary form (plain form) of any verb.

Don't look.

Don't go.

Don't eat that.

Don't talk.

Note

This grammar point is strictly for negative commands. It should not be confused with the sentence-ending particle な used for emphasis or seeking agreement (あついな。 - It's hot, isn't it?), or the colloquial shortened version of なさい (ちょっと待ちな（さい）。 - wait a moment). The former appears at the end of a full sentence, the latter after a verb ます stem. In formal situations or when speaking to someone of higher status, use '～ないでください' instead.

Words: 
な
Radicals of radicals