HSK 5
勿
wù
do not
Structure
请 / Subject + 勿 + Verb / Verb Phrase
How it works
The word '勿' is a formal negative particle used in written Chinese and official notices to express a command or prohibition. It is the literary equivalent of '不要' or '别' and is frequently seen in signs, instructions, and formal correspondence.
Examples
公共场所，请勿吸烟。
Gōnggòng chǎngsuǒ, qǐng wù xīyān.
Public place, please do not smoke.
机密文件，请勿翻阅。
Jīmì wénjiàn, qǐng wù fānyuè.
Confidential documents, please do not browse.
机会难得，失之可惜，切勿错过。
Jīhuì nándé, shī zhī kěxī, qièwù cuòguò.
The opportunity is rare, it would be a pity to lose it, so be sure not to miss it.
Common mistakes
Using '勿' in casual, spoken conversation instead of '不要' or '别', which makes the speech sound unnaturally stiff.
Tip
When you see '勿' on signs, it is almost always preceded by '请' (please) or followed by a two-syllable formal verb.
More HSK 5 grammar
See 勿 in real Chinese
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