expression, i-adjective
Used to describe behavior or situations that are morally or socially unacceptable. Often used when scolding children or expressing disapproval.
そんなことをしてはいけません。
You mustn't do such a thing.
うそをつくのはいけないことだ。
Telling lies is wrong.
expression, i-adjective
must not; should not; ought not to
Attaches to the -te form of a verb or adjective to express prohibition or strong advice against doing something.
ここで写真を撮ってはいけません。
You must not take photos here.
遅れてはいけないから、早く出よう。
We shouldn't be late, so let's leave early.
expression, i-adjective
Expresses that something is not working, not acceptable, or beyond repair. Sense 4 (hopeless) is a stronger extension of this meaning.
このパソコン、もういけないみたい。
This computer seems to be no good anymore.
彼に頼んでもいけないよ。
It's no use asking him.
expression, i-adjective
unfortunate; a shame; a pity
Used to express sympathy or regret about a situation. Often appears as いけないね or いけないことになった.
雨で運動会が中止だって。いけないね。
The sports day was canceled because of rain. That's a shame.
expression, i-adjective
unable to drink (alcohol)
Specifically refers to being unable to handle alcohol; a set expression often used as お酒がいけない.
私はお酒がいけないんです。
I can't drink alcohol.
expression, i-adjective
so as not to ...; lest ...; in case ...
Used in the pattern ...すると/してはいけないから/ので to express doing something to prevent an undesirable outcome.
忘れないようにメモしておこう。いけないからね。
Let's write it down so we don't forget. Just in case.