Italian Phrase
Non rientrare mai.
Meaning
Literally “Never go back in.” It is a firm prohibition telling someone not to re‑enter a place, to avoid a situation again, or to stay away from a particular location.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to give a clear, emphatic warning or rule – for example, a parent to a child, a teacher to a student, or a sign in a restricted area. It works both in spoken and written Italian, but the tone should match the seriousness of the command.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nonrientraremai
Negazione (Non)
In Italian, the word *non* precedes the verb to make a statement or command negative.
Verbo all’infinito (rientrare)
For a negative command the infinitive form of the verb is used (e.g., *non entrare*, *non parlare*). *Rientrare* means “to go back in / to re‑enter”.
Avverbio di frequenza (mai)
*Mai* means “never”. Placed after the verb it intensifies the prohibition.
Ordine negativo formale
The structure *non + infinitive + mai* is a strong, formal way to forbid something, often heard from parents, teachers or authority figures.
🗨In Conversation
Posso entrare di nuovo nella stanza?
Can I go back into the room?
No, non rientrare mai.
No, never go back in.
✕Common Mistakes
Mai non rientrare.
In Italian the adverb *mai* follows the verb; placing it before *non* sounds unnatural.
Non rientri mai.
Using the subjunctive *rientri* changes the meaning; the correct form for a command is the infinitive *rientrare*.
Non rientrare mai!
While the exclamation mark is not wrong, beginners often forget the period in written form; the phrase is usually a statement, not a shouted command.
↔Alternatives
Non entrare più.
Don’t enter again.
Non tornare più qui.
Don’t come back here.
Stai lontano da qui.
Stay away from here.
Cultural Tip
In Italian, negative commands are formed with *non* + infinitive, which sounds more formal than the simple *non + verb* in the present (e.g., *non entrare*). Adding *mai* adds extra emphasis, making the prohibition sound final. Be aware of your tone – a gentle *non rientrare mai* can be a caring warning, while a harsh delivery can feel authoritarian.