JLPT N2
ざるを得ない
Can't help but / Have no choice but
Structure
Verb ない-stem ざるを得ない
How it works
This expression indicates that the speaker has no choice but to perform a certain action, often against their true wishes or preferences. It is a formal, written expression derived from classical Japanese. Note that for 'suru' verbs, the form becomes 'せざるを得ない'.
Examples
台風の影響で、旅行は中止せざるを得ない。
Due to the influence of the typhoon, we have no choice but to cancel the trip.
これだけ証拠があるなら、彼が犯人だと認めざるを得ない。
With this much evidence, I cannot help but admit that he is the culprit.
上司に言われたので、残業せざるを得なかった。
Since my boss told me to, I had no choice but to work overtime.
Common mistakes
The most frequent error is using 'しない' or 'さざる' for 'suru' verbs; it must always be 'せざるを得ない'.
Tip
Think of this as a very formal version of '〜ないわけにはいかない'. It sounds much more rigid and is often used in news, business reports, or academic writing.
More JLPT N2 grammar
See ざるを得ない in real Japanese
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