〜べからず

Do not…; It is prohibited to…

1. Overview

「〜べからず」 is a formal expression used to indicate prohibition, commonly found in signs, regulations, or public announcements. It strongly emphasizes that a certain action is absolutely forbidden in specific situations.

2. Structure

• Verb (dictionary form) + べからず

3. Usage Explanation

• Strong Prohibition:
  This expression is typically used in very formal settings, particularly in public signs, rules, or warnings, to notify people that a certain behavior is strictly prohibited.

• Primarily Written Language:
  This form is often seen in written language, especially in signage or formal notices, and is rarely used in spoken, everyday conversation.

• English Translation:
  Can be translated as “Do not…” or “It is prohibited to…”.

4. Example Sentences

1. ここにゴミを捨てるべからず。
   Do not throw garbage here.

2. ここに立ち入るべからず。
   Do not enter this area.

3. 他人のプライバシーを侵すべからず。
   Do not invade others' privacy.

4. この機械に触るべからず。
   Do not touch this machine.

5. 許可なく撮影するべからず。
   Do not take photographs without permission.

5. Key Points to Note

• Literary Tone:
  「〜べからず」 is a formal, literary expression typically suited for solemn or official contexts, not for casual conversation.

• Emphasis on Prohibition:
  This phrase has a strong prohibitive nuance, conveying a strict prohibition or warning.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜てはならない: Used to indicate prohibition in a less formal or everyday context.
  • Example: ここでタバコを吸ってはならない。
    You must not smoke here.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜禁止: Often seen in notices, conveying prohibition in a short, clear format.
  • Example: 飲食禁止
    No eating or drinking.

8. Summary

「〜べからず」 is a formal and emphatic prohibitive expression, used in signage, regulations, and official announcements to indicate that certain actions are absolutely not permitted. It is a clear, strong statement commonly found in formal written contexts.