JLPT N2

～わけにはいかない

Cannot (for a reason), unable to (due to circumstances/rules)

Structure

Verb plain form + わけにはいかない

How it works

～わけにはいかない is used when one feels they must not or cannot do something due to a strong reason, such as social norms, obligations, rules, or personal principles. It implies a moral or practical impossibility.

Examples

親友の頼みだから、断るわけにはいかない。

It's a request from my best friend, so I can't refuse it.

Common mistakes

Confusing it with a simple physical inability (～できない). This grammar point implies a conscious decision not to do something despite being physically able.

Tip

Break it down as 'わけ' (reason/circumstances) + 'には' + 'いかない' (cannot go/proceed). So, 'the circumstances won't let it proceed'.

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 ～わけにはいかない in real Japanese

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