Processing keyword: Verbる べからず (〜ru bekara zu)

Japanese Grammar Point: Verbる べからず (〜ru bekara zu)

1. Introduction

The grammar point Verbるべからず (～るべからず) is an old-fashioned or literary expression used to indicate strong prohibition. It translates to "must not" or "should not" in English and is commonly found on signs, warnings, or in written instructions. Although not frequently used in everyday conversation, understanding this grammar is useful for reading literature, historical texts, or formal writings.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

Verbるべからず is used to express that something is strictly prohibited or should not be done under any circumstances.

• English Equivalent: "Must not ~", "Should not ~", "Do not ~"

Structure

The structure involves attaching べからず directly to the dictionary form of a verb.

Formation Diagram

[Verb (Dictionary Form)] + べからず

Examples

• 立ち入る (to enter) + べからず → 立ち入るべからず (Do not enter)
• 捨てる (to throw away) + べからず → 捨てるべからず (Do not throw away)

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with 〜てはいけない

While べからず is a classical and literary form, 〜てはいけない is a more common expression used in daily conversation to indicate prohibition. | Grammar Point | Usage | Formality | |------------------------|-----------------------------------|-------------------| | Verbるべからず | Strong prohibition (literary) | Formal, Written | | Verbてはいけない | Prohibition (common use) | Neutral, Spoken |

4. Examples in Context

Formal/Written Examples

1. ここにゴミを捨てるべからず。
   • Koko ni gomi o suteru bekara zu.
   • Translation: Do not throw garbage here.
2. 危険！立ち入るべからず。
   • Kiken! Tachiiru bekara zu.
   • Translation: Danger! Do not enter.

Literary Example

3. 人の道に外れることをするべからず。
   • Hito no michi ni hazureru koto o suru bekara zu.
   • Translation: You must not do things that stray from the path of humanity.

Historical Text Example

4. 礼儀を忘るべからず。
   • Reigi o wasuru bekara zu.
   • Translation: Do not forget your manners.

5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Usage in Signs: You might encounter べからず on old signs or traditional buildings in Japan, indicating prohibitions in a formal manner.
• Formality: This expression reflects a high level of formality and is associated with authoritative directives.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 恩を忘るべからず。
  • On o wasuru bekara zu.
  • Translation: Do not forget a favor received.
  • Explanation: Emphasizes the importance of gratitude in Japanese culture.

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Using in Casual Speech: Avoid using べからず in daily conversation; it may sound unnatural or overly formal.
• Incorrect Verb Form: Remember to use the dictionary form of the verb before べからず, not the masu-form or te-form.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "べからず" as "べから (do not) + ず (negative ending)" to remember it conveys prohibition.
• Contextual Learning: Read traditional Japanese texts or visit historical sites to see this grammar in authentic contexts.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Verbるべからず is a formal, literary expression meaning "must not ~" or "should not ~".
• It is attached directly to the dictionary form of a verb.
• Commonly found in written warnings, signs, and historical or literary texts.
• Not used in everyday conversation; instead, use 〜てはいけない for spoken language.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the following sentence: 立ち入るべからず。 Answer: Do not enter.
2. Which form of the verb is used before べからず? a) Masu-form b) Te-form c) Dictionary form Answer: c) Dictionary form
3. True or False? べからず is commonly used in casual spoken Japanese. Answer: False

Feel free to revisit this lesson to reinforce your understanding of Verbるべからず. Practice by spotting this grammar in signs or texts to become familiar with its usage.