ずとも
JLPT Level: N1
Meanings
Even if not
Without
Don't have to
Usage
V-ない + ずとも
V-ない + ずとも + よい/かまわない/いい等の後続表現(optional)
Explanation
ずとも is a literary or formal expression meaning “even if (one) does not …” or “without …; need not …”. It attaches to the negative form of a verb (the ない form) to indicate that the following situation can be true or the action is not required, even when the first clause does not happen. It tends to sound more formal or written than the everyday ても/なくても forms. Typical usage includes stating that something is unnecessary or that another outcome occurs regardless of the negated action. Example sentences show it after verb bases in ない form, often with subsequent phrases like よい, かまわない, or the rest of the sentence clarifying the consequence.
行かずともよい。
いかずともよい。
You don't have to go.
写真を見ずとも、話を聞くだけで内容が分かる。
しゃしんをみずとも、はなしをきくだけでないようがわかる。
Even without looking at the photo, you can understand the content just by listening to the story.
彼は手紙を出さずとも、仲間は彼を信じてくれるだろう。
かれはてがみをださずとも、なかまはかれをしんじてくれるだろう。
Even if he does not send the letter, his friends will probably believe him.