This is a very strong way to say "Don't do that." It is a direct command telling someone to stop or not do something.
Verb [dictionary form] + なPrimary
This is a very strong way to say "Don't do that." It is a direct command telling someone to stop or not do something.
勝手に動くな！命令を待て！
Don't move without permission! Wait for orders!
最後まで諦めるな！
Don't give up until the very end!
「触るな」と書いてある看板を無視して、彼はその彫刻に触れた。
Ignoring the sign that said 'Do not touch,' he touched the sculpture.
おい、そんなことするなよ。危ないだろ。
Hey, don't do that. It's dangerous, isn't it?
父に「夜遅くまでゲームをするな」と何度も言われた。
My father told me many times, 'Don't play games until late at night.'
This grammar is like a sudden stop sign. It tells someone to stop right now. It shows strong feelings like anger or worry. Adding 'よ' makes it a bit softer, like a serious warning to a friend.
This is different from "~nai de kudasai". That means "please don't". This is also different from "~te wa ikemasen". That means "you must not". This is a very strong "Don't do it!" command. It is like the opposite of "~ro", which means "Do it!".
Don't use this when talking to someone older or in a higher position than you. For example, don't say this to your teacher. Only use this with people you are above. This could be your child. You can also use it with very close male friends. Sometimes, female characters in stories use it to sound tough.
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