別 / 不要 + verb phrase gives negative imperatives: do not do X. 別 is compact and very common in speech; 不要 is slightly fuller and can sound clearer.
Prohibition - blocks an action before it happens
Tone control - can be strict, caring, or polite depending on context
Frequent with 了 - 別/不要 ... 了 often means stop doing it
See examples below for varied real-world usage.
別 and 不要 are both natural
- Pick by tone and rhythm.
Use with actions, not isolated nouns
- The predicate should be explicit.
別...了 often means stop now
- It can indicate immediate cessation.
Do not stay up too late.
Do not eat in the classroom.
Do not forget to bring your passport.
Do not be late again.
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