〜ないでください
please don't ~
Say clearly that an action is not allowed.
Remember it
Picture a stop sign: the action + 〜ないでください.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ないでください」 means "please don't ~". Structure: Verb nai-form + でください. This is a JLPT N5 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
You will meet this in rules, instructions, notices, and safety warnings.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
At school
Example 1ここで勉強をしないでください。
ここでべんきょうをしないでください。
kokodebenkyouoshinaidekudasai.
Please do not do study here.
Everyday life
Example 2ここで質問をしないでください。
ここでしつもんをしないでください。
kokodeshitsumon'oshinaidekudasai.
Please do not do question here.
Shopping & services
Example 3ここで買い物をしないでください。
ここでかいものをしないでください。
kokodekaimonooshinaidekudasai.
Please do not do shopping here.
Everyday life
Example 4ここで洗濯をしないでください。
ここでせんたくをしないでください。
kokodesentakuoshinaidekudasai.
Please do not do laundry here.
Everyday life
Example 5ここで電話をしないでください。
ここででんわをしないでください。
kokodedenwaoshinaidekudasai.
Please do not do telephone call here.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
Please do not do study here.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ないでください.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.