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Älä is a Finnish word that functions primarily as a negative imperative, translating to "don't" or "do not" in English. It is commonly used in Finnish language to prohibit or discourage an action, often combined with a verb to form a direct command or suggestion. For example, "älä juntu" means "don't stare" or "don't gawk."

In Finnish grammar, älä is an imperative form that pairs with the second-person singular or plural to give commands. It is used in both spoken and written language to express prohibitions politely or emphatically. The word derives from the Finnish verb "olla" meaning "to be," with the negative suffix "-dä" or "-dä," forming a negative construction, similar to other negative imperatives in Finnish.

Älä appears frequently in everyday conversation, safety instructions, and written guidelines, emphasizing what should be avoided. Its usage is context-dependent, but it generally conveys a clear prohibition or warning.

The word is distinct to the Finnish language and is not directly related to similar negations in other Uralic languages, though it shares commonalities with the Finnish negative particle "ei," which also means "not." Unlike "ei," which is used in verb negation, älä is specifically used as an imperative negative.

Overall, älä is an essential component of Finnish communication, used to express prohibitions, warn others, or give instructions that should not be followed.