Translation guide
Expressing prohibition or lack of permission in Japanese. The most common way is using 〜てはいけない or its contracted form 〜ちゃいけない. Other patterns include 〜てはだめ, 〜ないといけない (double negative for must not), and formal written 〜べからず. The choice depends on formality and strength.
To say that something is not allowed or prohibited, often in rules or instructions.
Standard pattern meaning 'must not do'. Attach to the て-form of a verb. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
You must not take photos here.
You must not be late.
Casual contraction of 〜てはいけない. Used in everyday conversation. The negative can be 〜ちゃいけません for polite speech.
You shouldn't say things like that.
You must not play here.
Means 'it's no good if you do...' or 'don't do...'. Slightly softer than 〜てはいけない, often used in admonishments.
Don't shout so loudly.
Is it not allowed to sit here?
Polite request not to do something. Literally 'please don't do...'. Softer than direct prohibition.
Please do not smoke.
To express that something is absolutely forbidden or must not happen under any circumstances.
Means 'cannot afford to do' or 'cannot keep doing'. Implies urgency or impossibility of continuing an action.
I can't wait any longer.
Archaic or formal written prohibition. Often seen on signs or in old texts. Attach to dictionary form of verb.
No entry. (Do not enter.)
To describe something as not permitted or against the rules.
〜てはいけない is a general prohibition, while 〜てはならない is stronger and more formal, often used in written rules or moral obligations. 〜てはならない implies 'must not' as a duty.
You must not break a promise.
Avoid directly translating 'not allowed' as 許可されていない in casual speech; it sounds stiff. Use 〜てはいけない or 〜ちゃだめ instead.
Photography is not allowed.