JLPT N1

～ないではすまない

Must; cannot get away without doing

Structure

Verb-ない form + ではすまない

How it works

This expression indicates that one absolutely must do something, as not doing so would lead to strong negative consequences, social repercussions, or an unacceptable outcome. It signifies a compelling, unavoidable duty.

Examples

こんな重大なミスをしたら、謝らないではすまない。

If you make such a serious mistake, you must apologize.

Common mistakes

Using it for simple personal obligations; it's for situations with a clear external or social compulsion.

Tip

Imagine a social pressure or moral obligation to act.

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 ～ないではすまない in real Japanese

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