Processing keyword: ～てはならない (〜te wa naranai)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～てはならない (〜te wa naranai)
1. Introduction
The grammar point ～てはならない (te wa naranai) is a Japanese expression used to convey strong prohibition or the idea that something must not be done. It is often found in formal writing, rules, and regulations. Understanding this expression is essential for learners who wish to grasp nuances of formality and command in the Japanese language.
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
- ～てはならない expresses a strong prohibition or admonition.
- It translates to "must not..." or "should not..." in English.
Structure
To form this expression, combine the て-form of a verb with はならない.
[Verb て-form] + はならない
Formation Diagram
| Verb Dictionary Form | Verb て-form | ＋ はならない | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| 行く (いく) | 行って | 行ってはならない | Must not go |
| 食べる (たべる) | 食べて | 食べてはならない | Must not eat |
| 忘れる (わすれる) | 忘れて | 忘れてはならない | Must not forget |
| 入る (はいる) | 入って | 入ってはならない | Must not enter |
3. Comparative Analysis
～てはならない vs. ～てはいけない vs. ～てはだめ
While all three expressions convey prohibition, they differ in formality and intensity.
| Expression | Formality | Intensity | Usage Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| ～てはならない | Formal | Strong | Written rules, formal warnings |
| ～てはいけない | Neutral | Moderate | Spoken language, general prohibitions |
| ～てはだめ | Informal | Casual | Conversational, friendly advice |
- Example Comparison:
- 行ってはならない。 (Formal, strong prohibition)
- 行ってはいけない。 (Neutral, standard prohibition)
- 行ってはだめ。 (Informal, casual advice)
4. Examples in Context
Formal Context
- この部屋に入ってはならない。
- Kono heya ni haitte wa naranai.
- Translation: "You must not enter this room."
- 法律を犯してはならない。
- Hōritsu o okashite wa naranai.
- Translation: "One must not break the law."
Written Context
- 試験中に携帯電話を使ってはならない。
- Shiken-chū ni keitai denwa o tsukatte wa naranai.
- Translation: "You must not use a mobile phone during the exam."
- ここにゴミを捨ててはならないと書いてあります。
- Koko ni gomi o sutete wa naranai to kaite arimasu.
- Translation: "It is written here that you must not throw garbage."
Polite Command
- 大切なことを忘れてはならない。
- Taisetsu na koto o wasurete wa naranai.
- Translation: "You must not forget important things."
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
- Formality: ～てはならない is a formal expression, often used in official documents, laws, and formal admonitions.
- Authority: The expression carries a sense of authority and is suitable for situations where strict compliance is expected.
Idiomatic Expressions
- してはならないこと
- Shite wa naranai koto
- Translation: "Things that must not be done" (Often used in rulebooks or guidelines)
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Using ～てはならない in Casual Conversation:
- Mistake: 友達に「遅れてはならないよ」と言う。
- Correction: Use a less formal expression like ～てはだめ.
- Corrected: 友達に「遅れてはだめだよ」と言う。
Learning Strategies
- Mnemonic Device:
- Think of "ならない" as "not allowed to become" — implying that the action must not come to be.
- Rule of Thumb:
- Reserve ～てはならない for formal writing or when expressing strong prohibitions.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～てはならない is used to express strong prohibitions in a formal context.
- It is constructed by adding はならない to the て-form of a verb.
- It is more formal and stronger than ～てはいけない and ～てはだめ.
Quick Recap Quiz
- How do you form ～てはならない? Answer: [Verb て-form] + はならない
- Translate to Japanese: "You must not be late." Answer: 遅れてはならない。
- Which is more formal, ～てはならない or ～てはだめ? Answer: ～てはならない is more formal.
By mastering ～てはならない, you enhance your ability to understand and use formal Japanese, especially in contexts involving rules, regulations, and formal prohibitions.