Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word
なさい. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
なさい, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
なさい in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
なさい you have here. The definition of the word
なさい will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
なさい, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
Japanese
Etymology
From 為さる (nasaru, honorific for する suru, “to do”), derived from 為す (nasu, “to do”).[1][2]
Suffix
なさい • (-nasai)
- (informal) combines with the verb stem to create an imperative as a kind of strong request
- よく聞きなさい！
- Yoku kikinasai!
- Listen up! (as to a child or spouse)
- ここに名前を書きなさい。
- Koko ni namae o kakinasai.
- Write your name here.
- あの猫を見なさい。
- Ano neko o minasai.
- Watch that cat.
Usage notes
This is a suffix, attaching to the 連用形 (ren'yōkei, “stem or continuative form”) of verbs.
This is stronger than a simple request, and is considered somewhat informal. This may be used as a way of issuing a command, such as a teacher prompting a student to pay attention, or a parent scolding a child.
Unlike 下さい (kudasai), -nasai can only be used to make positive commands, never negative commands.
Synonyms
Derived terms
References