Lesson 50
Base 4 by itself: the Plain Imperative
If you want to give orders without a hint of kindness, just use Base 4. Actually, this is a form you really don't want to use. If you do, you'll probably be thought of as someone who has only limited and unconventional language ability. Or, if you look and act like you know what you're saying, you will definitely become unpopular quickly, and maybe even get into a fight.
You'll hear this form mostly when watching Japanese TV or movies, or maybe when hearing a group of guys talking. You could call it "ruffian talk." It's simple: no subject or object needed, just the Base 4 form of the verb yelled out:
- Damare! (Shut up!)
- Ike! (Go!)
- Yare! (Do it!)
One situation where this can be used without offense is when you are cheering for someone at a sports event. There you will hear many yelling hashire! (Run!) or gambare! (Hang in there! / Go for it!)
Finally, please remember that this one only applies to yodan verbs. You wouldn't say sure for "do it" or mire for "look."
Word Check
damaru: to be quiet
yaru: to do (plain)
hashiru: to run
gambaru: to try hard; to not give up
(Verbs are shown in their plain form.)
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