N3124/219

決して〜ない

決して + 動詞の否定形決して + 形容詞/形容動詞の否定形(〜ではない)決して + Vないだろう/Vないはずだ(強い否定推量)

Meanings

  • Never
  • By no means

About this pattern

Explanation

決して〜ない is a strong, emphatic negation meaning something will not happen under any circumstances. It conveys a firm determination or a strong belief about the impossibility of something. It is more forceful than simply 〜ない and is often used to deny a possibility or to express resolute commitment. It is commonly used in statements about personal actions, rules, or facts that are absolutely true or applicable, especially in written or formal contexts. Common pitfalls: avoid using with future speculative statements in casual speech where softer negations are preferred; keep the focus on absolute negation rather than a mere denial. Typical contexts include refusing plans, asserting personal principles, or correcting a mistaken assumption.

Learn in context

Example sentences

決して諦めない。

I will never give up.

彼は決して遅刻しない。

He never is late.

この映画は決して退屈ではない。

This movie is by no means boring.

このレポートは決して簡単ではない。

This report is by no means easy.