???? Introduction
As you move into advanced Japanese grammar, you’ll encounter expressions that convey subtle emotions and situations that feel out of your control. One such expressive pattern is 〜に〜ない / (よ)うにも〜ない, an N1 grammar structure that describes situations where you can’t do something, even if you want to — either due to external circumstances or internal feelings.
In this blog post, we’ll break down its meaning, structure, usage, and nuances, complete with clear examples and tips to help you master it.
???? What is 〜に〜ない / (よ)うにも〜ない?
Core meaning:
It expresses a situation where someone wants to do something but cannot due to unavoidable reasons. It often conveys a sense of frustration, helplessness, or being stuck.
???? Structure
| Pattern | Usage |
|---|---|
| Verb (dictionary form) + に + potential negative form | Can’t do something |
| Verb volitional form + にも + potential negative form | Even if I try to do it, I can’t |
Examples:
- 泣くに泣けない (I want to cry but I can’t)
- 行こうにも行けない (Even if I try to go, I can’t)
???? Nuance and Tone
- Often conveys an emotional conflict or a frustrating situation.
- Slightly literary or expressive — not common in casual daily conversation.
- Frequently appears in novels, dramas, or more expressive speech.
???? Example Sentences
1️⃣ 〜に〜ない
Japanese:
彼女に謝るに謝れない。
English:
I want to apologize to her, but I can’t.
Explanation:
The speaker feels they should apologize, but for some reason (embarrassment, circumstances, timing) they can’t.
Japanese:
泣くに泣けない状況だった。
English:
It was a situation where I couldn’t even cry, even though I wanted to.
Explanation:
There’s a strong emotion but no way to express it.
2️⃣ (よ)うにも〜ない
Japanese:
助けようにも助けられない。
English:
Even if I try to help, I can’t.
Explanation:
Even with the will to act, external reasons make it impossible.
Japanese:
行こうにも行けない。
English:
Even if I try to go, I can’t.
Explanation:
The speaker might be prevented by circumstances (money, health, rules, etc.)
???? Common Mistakes
❌ Using it casually
- Wrong: 今日は映画を見に見ない。
- Correct: 今日は映画を見に行けない。
→ Use this structure only in emotional or expressive contexts, not for daily casual talk.
???? How to Study and Practice
- Look for it in literature: This pattern often appears in novels, songs, or emotional dialogues.
- Practice creating emotionally charged situations: Think of frustrating or helpless moments and describe them using this structure.
- Compare with similar expressions:
- 〜ことができない → simple “can’t”
- 〜わけにはいかない → can’t because it’s socially or morally inappropriate
- 〜に〜ない → can’t because of feelings or external conditions beyond your control
???? JLPT Tip
This is a grammar pattern likely to appear in N1 reading comprehension passages or grammar multiple-choice questions.
Look for emotional conflict cues in the context.
Example Question:
こんなことを言ってしまって、今さら謝る_____。
A) に謝れない
B) に謝らない
C) に謝ることができない
D) に謝るべきだ
✔️ Correct: A) に謝れない
???? Cultural Insight
Japanese tends to express emotions indirectly, and this grammar reflects that beautifully. Instead of directly saying “I can’t,” it shows the nuance of wanting to, but being unable to — a way of subtly revealing inner emotional struggles.
???? Conclusion
The 〜に〜ない / (よ)うにも〜ない grammar pattern is a powerful tool for expressing complex emotions and situations beyond one’s control. Mastering this structure will not only boost your JLPT N1 grammar skills but also help you sound more natural and sensitive in Japanese.
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