わけにはいかない
Meanings
- Cannot afford to
- No way to
- It's not possible to do given the circumstances
About this pattern
Explanation
わけにはいかない expresses a duty, obligation, or practical impossibility due to circumstances. It conveys that, despite any desire or possibility, one cannot do what is being considered because of external constraints (social expectations, responsibilities, consequences). It often sounds formal or assertive, and contrasts with a more casual inability. Typical contexts include work, responsibilities, or important reasons that prevent a person from taking a certain action. Examples: 行くわけにはいかない (I can’t go, because of [my obligations]); 忙しくて遊ぶわけにはいかない (I can’t go out to play because I’m busy).
Learn in context
Example sentences
I’m busy today, so I can’t go out to play.
Under these circumstances, I can’t accept his proposal.
I can’t go on a trip because I don’t have money.
Keep studying
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