N176/186

なくして(は)

なくしてはなくしてはならないなくしては困る

Meanings

  • Without
  • If not for
  • In the absence of
  • Without X, Y cannot be done

About this pattern

Explanation

なくしては is used to express that something is impossible or highly difficult to achieve without another element. It marks a condition that must be met for a situation to occur, often highlighting necessity, dependency, or an unavoidable consequence. The nuance is stronger than a simple 'without' and is commonly used in formal or expressive Japanese to emphasize how crucial something is for a result or situation.

Learn in context

Example sentences

この契約は君の同意なくしては成立しない。

This contract cannot be concluded without your consent.

友人の力なくしては、プロジェクトは完成しない。

Without a friend's help, the project won't be completed.

彼の協力なくしては、この計画は実現できないだろう。

Without his cooperation, this plan probably can't be realized.

命をなくしては、意味がない。

Without life, there is no meaning.