命令

• Reading: めいれい
• Romaji: meirei
• Kanji breakdown: 命 (mei) — life, command; 令 (rei) — order, rule, law
• Pronunciation: /meː.ɾeː/

Meaning

Order; command; decree. An authoritative instruction that must be followed.

A noun that also functions as a suru verb (命令する). Stronger and more direct than 指示 (instruction) or お願い (request). Used in military, legal, and hierarchical contexts. In computing, 命令 also means a command or instruction to a machine. The 命令形 (meireikei) is the imperative form in Japanese grammar.

Examples

1. 上官の命令には絶対に従わなければならない。 You absolutely must obey orders from a superior officer.
2. 避難命令が出たのですぐに逃げてください。 An evacuation order has been issued, so please flee immediately.
3. 彼は誰の命令も聞かない性格だ。 He has the kind of personality that won't listen to anyone's orders.

Usage Guide

Context: military, legal, workplace

Tone: authoritative

Origin & History

Compound of 命 (mei, life/decree) and 令 (rei, order/rule). A decree issued with the weight of authority — a command that carries the force of law or rank.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal