yapma

Yapma is a Turkish word that functions as the informal negative imperative of the verb yapmak, meaning to do. In everyday use, yapma translates roughly as "Don't do it" or "Don't!" and can stand alone as an interjection or accompany a specific action, as in "Yapma bunu" (Don't do this) or "Yapma şu işi" (Don't do that job). It is commonly heard in casual speech and conversation, where it can express caution, mild rebuke, or frustration.

Grammatical notes: yapma is formed from the verb stem yap- (to do) plus the negative imperative suffix -ma, yielding the second-person singular informal form. It is appropriate when addressing a single person you are familiar with. In formal or plural contexts, Turkish uses yapmayın (do not do [it]).

Usage and nuance: yapma is versatile and depends on tone and context. It can soften a rebuke when said gently or convey stronger admonition when spoken more forcefully. Colloquial variants or emphases include Yapma ya! (Don’t be like that!) or simply Yapma. With a direct object, the phrase clearly negates a specific action, while without an object it negates the general act of doing.

Related forms: yapmay-, the present or past forms of the same verb, and other negative imperatives such as yapmayın (you all/you formal do not), or yapmayalım (let us not do). The root verb, yap- (to do), is common across Turkish expressions and compounds.

See also: Turkish imperative mood, negative imperative, Turkish grammar.