Processing keyword: Verb なさい (〜nasai)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verb なさい (〜nasai)

Verb なさい (〜nasai) Grammar Point

1. Introduction

In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point Verb なさい (〜nasai). This structure is commonly used to give commands or make firm requests. Understanding how to use 〜なさい will enhance your ability to comprehend and participate in hierarchical or instructive conversations in Japanese.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

The 〜なさい form is used to:

• Give a command or instruction
• Make a firm yet polite request It is often employed by someone of higher status or authority (like a parent, teacher, or superior) when speaking to someone of lower status.

Structure

Formation Diagram

[Verb Stem] + なさい

How to Form the Verb Stem

1. Group 1 Verbs (五段動詞/Godan verbs):
   • Take the ます形 (masu-form) of the verb and remove ます.
   • Example: 書きます → 書き
2. Group 2 Verbs (一段動詞/Ichidan verbs):
   • Remove る from the dictionary form.
   • Example: 食べる → 食べ
3. Irregular Verbs:
   • する becomes し.
   • 来る (くる) becomes 来 (き).

Examples

3. Comparative Analysis

〜なさい vs. Imperative Form

• 〜なさい Form:
  • Polite command
  • Used by superiors to subordinates
  • Example: 食べなさい。 (Eat.)
• Imperative Form (命令形):
  • Strong, direct command
  • Can be rude if used inappropriately
  • Example: 食べろ。 (Eat!)

〜なさい vs. 〜てください

• 〜てください Form:
  • Polite request
  • Suitable for most situations
  • Example: 食べてください。 (Please eat.)
• Nuances:
  • Use 〜なさい when you have authority over the listener.
  • Use 〜てください for polite requests without asserting authority.

4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 宿題をしなさい。 Shukudai o shinasai.
   • Translation: Do your homework.
2. 早く起きなさい。 Hayaku okinasai.
   • Translation: Wake up early.
3. 部屋を掃除しなさい。 Heya o sōji shinasai.
   • Translation: Clean your room.
4. この本を読みなさい。 Kono hon o yominasai.
   • Translation: Read this book.
5. もっと野菜を食べなさい。 Motto yasai o tabenasai.
   • Translation: Eat more vegetables.

Contextual Usage

• Formal Spoken:
  • Teacher to student: 漢字を覚えなさい。
    • Kanji o oboenasai.
    • Remember the kanji.
• Informal Spoken:
  • Parent to child: 手を洗いなさい。
    • Te o arainasai.
    • Wash your hands.
• Written Instructions:
  • Exam instructions: 注意をよく読みなさい。
    • Chūi o yoku yominasai.
    • Read the instructions carefully.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

In Japanese culture, respect for hierarchy and social order is paramount. The 〜なさい form reflects this by allowing someone in a position of authority to give instructions politely yet firmly. It's a way to assert authority without being overly harsh.

Levels of Politeness and Formality

• Imperative Form (命令形):
  • Very direct and can be rude.
  • Used among close friends (male speech) or in emergency situations.
• 〜なさい Form:
  • Polite command.
  • Used by superiors (parents, teachers) to subordinates.
• 〜てください Form:
  • Polite request.
  • Appropriate in most situations, even with strangers.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 気をつけなさい。 Ki o tsukenasai.
  • Translation: Be careful.
• 遅れないようにしなさい。 Okurenai yō ni shinasai.
  • Translation: Make sure not to be late.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

1. Using the Plain Form Instead of Verb Stem
   • Incorrect: 食べるなさい。
   • Correct: 食べなさい。 Tip: Always use the verb stem, not the dictionary form, before なさい.
2. Overusing 〜なさい in Polite Company
   • Using 〜なさい with strangers or superiors can be inappropriate and rude. Tip: Reserve 〜なさい for situations where you have authority.

Learning Strategies

• Memorize Common Verbs with なさい Practice with frequently used verbs to become comfortable with the pattern.
• Associate なさい with Authority Remember that なさい is used when you have the authority to give commands.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• 〜なさい is a polite command form used by those in authority.
• Formed by adding なさい to the verb stem.
• Not appropriate to use with superiors or in casual peer interactions.
• More polite than the imperative form but stronger than a request with 〜てください.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Form the なさい command for the verb 書く (かく).
   • Answer: 書きなさい。
2. Is it appropriate to use 〜なさい when speaking to your boss? (Yes/No)
   • Answer: No.
3. Translate to Japanese using 〜なさい: "Please study well."
   • Answer: よく勉強しなさい。

Practice forming sentences with 〜なさい to become more familiar with its usage. Remember to consider the social context when choosing this form!