JLPT N1

～ではあるまいし

It's not as if; it's not like

Structure

Noun + ではあるまいし

How it works

This expression is used to reject an assumption or to state that a certain behavior is unsuitable because the current situation or person is clearly not what is being implied. It often carries a reprimanding or corrective nuance.

Examples

子供ではあるまいし、自分で決めなさい。

You're not a child, so decide for yourself.

Common mistakes

Using it to state what something is; it's specifically for stating what something is NOT and implying that actions should reflect that.

Tip

Imagine saying "It's not like you're (X), so act accordingly."

More JLPT N1 grammar

いかんによらずをもってをものともせずともなるとであれたりとも~ないに足る極まりない

See ～ではあるまいし in real Japanese

Import an article and tap any sentence using it. The explanation comes back about the sentence in front of you, not a textbook example.

Try InputDojo free