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〜なかれ

do not (classical command)

Verb dictionary form + なかれ

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なかれ is a classical negative command, "do not", found in mottos, dramatic writing and set phrases: 失敗を恐れるなかれ, "do not fear failure".

It follows the dictionary form, like the plain prohibitive な (N4's imperative): 恐れるな. なかれ sounds lofty, like "thou shalt not".

驚くなかれ is a lively way to introduce surprising news, "believe it or not": 驚くなかれ、彼はまだ十歳だ, "believe it or not, he's only ten".

事なかれ主義 is a common noun meaning a "don't rock the boat" attitude, avoiding trouble at all costs. In everyday speech, you'd simply say 〜な or 〜ないで.

Examples

  • 驚おどろくなかれ、彼かれはまだ十歳じゅっさいだ。

    Believe it or not, he's only ten.

  • あの会社かいしゃは事ことなかれ主義しゅぎだ。

    That company has a don't-rock-the-boat attitude.

  • 失敗しっぱいを恐おそれるなかれ。

    Do not fear failure.

  • 汝なんじ、嘘うそをつくなかれ。

    Thou shalt not lie.

  • 最後さいごまで油断ゆだんするなかれ。

    Don't let your guard down until the very end.

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