Rules and Prohibitions with 〜こと

Learn the written rule pattern 〜こと and how it appears in notices, school rules, and workplace instructions.

Recognize 〜こと as a formal way to state rules and instructions.Form positive and negative rules with dictionary and negative forms.Read short notices and policy-style language with confidence.

Guided study

Core idea

In written rules, notices, and formal instructions, verbs + こと can mean 'must do' or 'do not do.' It sounds impersonal and official.

授業中は携帯電話を使わないこと。

Do not use mobile phones during class.

ない-form + こと creates a prohibition in written rules.

図書館では静かにすること。

Be quiet in the library.

Dictionary form + こと creates a required action.

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Japanese grammar lessons

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