〜に〜ない

JLPT Level: N1
Meanings

Cannot even ... if one wants to

Would like to ... but cannot

Wants to ... but cannot

Usage

V1にV2ない

V1にV2ない/V2られない

場面を強調して“〜に〜ない”と表す

Explanation
〜に〜ない is used to express a strong sense of inability to do something even though there is a desire or intention to do it. The first verb (V1) is the target action or situation, followed by に, and then a second verb (V2) in its negative form. This pattern highlights a contrast between what one wishes to do and what one cannot do at the moment, often due to obstacles, circumstances, or limitations. It is common in everyday speech to convey frustration or a sense of inevitability when a desired action cannot be taken.
買いに行くに行けない。もうお金が足りない。
かいにいくにいけない。もうおかねがたりない。

I want to go buy it, but I can’t go because I don’t have enough money anymore.

遊びに行きたいのに行けない。予定がいっぱいだ。
あそびにいきたいのにいけない。よていがいっぱいだ。

I’d love to go out and have fun, but I can’t go because I’m full up with plans.

食べに行きたいのにお腹が痛くて食べられない。
たべにいきたいのにおなかがいたくてたべられない。

I want to go eat, but I can’t because my stomach hurts.