Genki Grammar #127: Mastering Verb Stem + nasai

Introduction

The verb stem + nasai is a firm command form in Japanese. While it’s less aggressive than other command forms like the imperative, nasai still implies authority. In this blog, we’ll learn what nasai means, when to use it, and how it compares to other command forms. Examples and notes will help you master this grammar point.

What It Means

The verb stem + nasai is used to give commands, often from someone in a position of authority or maturity, such as a parent to a child or a teacher to a student. Unlike truly polite language, nasai assumes the listener is expected to follow the command without question.

For example:

• 10時までに帰りなさい。
  Juu-ji made ni kaerinasai.
  (Come home by 10 o’clock.)

The tone here is firm, and while it’s not outright rude, it lacks respect and is inappropriate for speaking to someone of equal or higher status.

When to Use It

1. In Family or Informal Power Dynamics
   Nasai is common in settings where the speaker has authority over the listener, such as a parent directing a child.
2. In Formal Written Instructions
   You may also see nasai in exam instructions or other formal written materials, where clear commands are needed.

It’s crucial to avoid using nasai when speaking to superiors, strangers, or in situations requiring respect.

Examples

Here are some typical examples of nasai in use:

• 10時までに帰りなさい。
  Juu-ji made ni kaerinasai.
  (Come home by 10 o’clock.)
• かっこの中に単語を入れなさい。
  Kakko no naka ni tango o irenasai.
  (Fill in the blanks with a word.)
• 文句を言うのをやめなさい。
  Monku o iu no o yamenasai.
  (Stop complaining.)
• 毎日、漢字を5個書きなさい。
  Mainichi, kanji o go-ko kakinasai.
  (Write five kanji every day.)
• 静かにしなさい。
  Shizuka ni shinasai.
  (Be quiet.)

These examples show how nasai is often used in everyday life or formal written contexts to issue commands.

Notes

Japanese also has a more direct way of expressing commands called the imperative form. Unlike nasai, imperative forms can sound extremely harsh or confrontational, often used in emotional or intense situations (like anime or movies).

Imperative Form Rules

1. Ru-Verbs
   Change ru to ro.
   • やめる (yameru) → やめろ (yamero) (Stop it!)
   • Exception: くれる (kureru) → くれ (kure) (Give me that!)
2. U-Verbs
   Change the ending to e.
   • 死ぬ (shinu) → 死ね (shine) (Drop dead!)
3. Irregular Verbs
   • する (suru) → しろ (shiro) (Do it!)
   • くる (kuru) → こい (koi) (Come here now!)
4. Negative Imperative
   Add な (na) to the dictionary form for negative commands.
   • あきらめる (akirameru) → あきらめるな (akirameru na)
     (Don’t give up.)

Neutral Uses of Imperatives

Some imperatives are neutral and not confrontational, such as:

• 止まれ (tomare) (Stop) — seen on traffic signs.
• がんばれ (ganbare) (Hang in there!) — used to cheer someone on.

Conclusion

The verb stem + nasai is a strong command form that’s appropriate in specific contexts, such as between parents and children or in formal written instructions. However, it lacks respect and should never be used in polite or professional situations. Understanding when and where to use nasai versus other command forms will help you communicate appropriately in Japanese.

Recommended Resources

For a deeper understanding of Verb Stem + nasai, I recommend Japanese the Manga Way: An Illustrated Guide to Grammar and Structure. This book uses real manga examples to explain grammar points like nasai in a fun and engaging way, making it easy to understand the nuances and context of commands in Japanese. If you want to explore this grammar point further and see how it’s used naturally, this book is a great resource to enhance your learning.