JLPT N2

～ないわけにはいかない

Must do, cannot not do, have no choice but to

Structure

動詞-ない形 + わけにはいかない

How it works

This expression indicates that one is obliged to do something, or cannot avoid doing it, often due to social expectations, a sense of duty, or circumstantial necessity. It translates to 'must do' or 'cannot not do.'

Examples

先輩に頼まれたので、手伝わないわけにはいかない。

Since my senior asked me, I have no choice but to help.

Common mistakes

Using it for personal desire or simple necessity; it often implies an external pressure or duty.

Tip

Think of it as a double negative creating a positive obligation: 'I cannot not do it.'

More JLPT N2 grammar

に伴いにかけてにかわってにもかかわらずに限りに限らずをはじめを中心に

See ～ないわけにはいかない in real Japanese

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