N2107/217

そうにない

Verb (dictionary form) + そうにないい-adjective (plain form) + そうにないNoun + だ + そうにない

Meanings

  • Unlikely to
  • Showing no signs of

About this pattern

Explanation

そうにない expresses that something does not appear to be the case or that there is no sign that something will happen. It indicates a stronger sense of improbability or lack of expectation than a simple negative form. Use it when you want to convey that, based on current signs or information, expectation or likelihood is clearly absent. It is commonly used with verbs in their plain form and with i-adjectives. Note that it can carry a nuance of disappointment or inevitability, and is often used when stating forecasts, outcomes, or tendencies that do not look likely.

Learn in context

Example sentences

彼は今日中に終わりそうにない。

He doesn't seem likely to finish by today.

雨が降りそうにない。

It doesn't look like it's going to rain.

彼女はこの問題を今すぐ解けそうにない。

She doesn't seem likely to solve this problem right now.