～ではすまない (〜dewa sumanai)
Explanation
Expresses that just doing something is not enough or will not suffice.
Formation
Verb-dictionary form + ではすまない / い-Adjective + ではすまない / な-Adjective + ではすまない / Noun + ではすまない
Detailed Explanation
The grammar point ～ではすまない is used when the speaker strongly feels that an action or situation alone is not sufficient or acceptable, implying that more serious measures are needed or that the consequences are more severe.
Examples
ただ謝るではすまない。何か行動を取らなければならない。
Tada ayamaru dewa sumanai. Nanika koudou o toranakereba naranai.
Just apologizing will not suffice. Some action needs to be taken.
この問題は議論だけではすまない。具体的な計画が必要だ。
Kono mondai wa giron dake dewa sumanai. Gutaiteki na keikaku ga hitsuyou da.
This problem won't be solved with just discussions. A concrete plan is needed.
彼の失敗は注意だけではすまない。彼はその責任を取るべきだ。
Kare no shippai wa chuui dake dewa sumanai. Kare wa sono sekinin o toru beki da.
His failure won't be resolved with just a warning. He should take responsibility.
この失敗は金だけではすまない。信頼を取り戻すため、真心で謝罪するべきだ。
Kono shippai wa kane dake dewa sumanai. Shinrai o torimodosu tame, magokoro de shazai suru beki da.
This mistake cannot be settled with money alone. To regain trust, an earnest apology is needed.
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.