ない形

negative form of verbs

The ない形 (nai form) expresses the negative version of verbs, indicating that an action is not being performed.

N5

Meaning

negative form of verbs

The ない形 (nai form) expresses the negative version of verbs, indicating that an action is not being performed.

Formation

Verb (dictionary form) + ない
Irregular verbs: する → しない, 来る[くる] → 来[こ]ない

Explanation

The ない形 (nai form) is crucial for forming negative statements in Japanese. When you want to say that something does not happen or an action is not performed, you use this form.

Formation:

  • For most verbs, take the verb in its dictionary form (the infinitive) and add ない.
  • For example, the verb 食べる[たべる] (to eat) becomes 食べない[たべない] (not eat).
  • Irregular verbs have their own forms: する (to do) changes to しない (not do), and 来る[くる] (to come) changes to 来[こ]ない (not come).

Usage: The ない形 is often used in everyday conversations and casual writing. It is essential for forming negative sentences and can be used to express dislikes or refusal.