N2208/217

てはいられない

V-てはいられない

Meanings

Can't afford to
Unable to ...
Can't wait any longer
Can't stay doing this any more

About this pattern

Explanation

This grammar expresses a strong sense that one cannot continue a current action or state, often due to urgency, obligation, or an impending problem. It emphasizes that the situation compels one to stop waiting or to take action immediately, despite any habit, comfort, or desire to continue what one is doing.

Learn in context

Example sentences

締め切りが迫っているので、もう待ってはいられない。

With the deadline looming, I can't wait any longer.

大事な場面で失敗してしまい、もう笑ってはいられない。

I messed up at an important moment; I can't just laugh it off anymore.

遅刻なんてしてはいられない。今すぐ出発しなければ。

I can't afford to be late. I must leave right away.

Related patterns

得る・得る

to be able to; can; possible to do

Unable to; Cannot; Cannot possibly

ざるを得ない

Can't help doing; Have no choice but to...

Quick links

More N2 patterns All patterns

Keep studying

More N2 patterns

得る・得る

to be able to; can; possible to do

Unable to; Cannot; Cannot possibly

ざるを得ない

Can't help doing; Have no choice but to...

to not ~; un~; archaic negative form of ず used in literary Japanese

With the intention of doing; Instead of...; Act as if or pretend; Believing that...; Thinking that...

anyhow; at any rate; in any case; I have no doubt that; probably