〜得ない
Meanings
- Unable to
- Cannot
- Cannot possibly
About this pattern
Explanation
〜得ない attaches to the ます-stem of a verb to express that something is impossible or cannot be done, often implying a strong sense that the action cannot be achieved or admitted. It conveys a sense of limitation or an almost insurmountable difficulty in the situation. It is used in formal or written style and common in conversations about capability or possibility within a given context.
Learn in context
Example sentences
He cannot admit that fact.
I cannot understand his feelings.
I cannot predict the ending of this novel.
I can't believe such a thing.
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More N2 patterns
to be able to; can; possible to do
View detailsCan't help doing; Have no choice but to...
View detailsto not ~; un~; archaic negative form of ず used in literary Japanese
View detailsWith the intention of doing; Instead of...; Act as if or pretend; Believing that...; Thinking that...
View detailsanyhow; at any rate; in any case; I have no doubt that; probably
View detailsAt least; Even if not more, at minimum
View details