HomeGrammarJLPT N2~わけにはいかない (〜wake ni wa ikanai)

~わけにはいかない (〜wake ni wa ikanai)

JLPT N2

Explanation

Expresses that one cannot (or must not) do something due to responsibility, social pressure, etc.

Formation

Detailed explanation

The ~わけにはいかない grammar point is used to express that you cannot afford to do something or are not allowed to do it. It often implies a sense of responsibility, moral/social obligation, or external pressure that prevents you from doing it.

Examples

Shiken ga chikai kara, asobu wake ni wa ikanai.

Since the exam is close, I can't afford to just play around.

Tanaka-san ga matteiru node, okureru wake ni wa ikanai.

Mr. Tanaka is waiting, so I absolutely must not be late.

Kodomo-tachi no tame ni, kono shigoto o yameru wake ni wa ikanai.

For the sake of my kids, I can't afford to quit this job.

Kono mondai wa juuyou dakara, mushi suru wake ni wa ikanai.

This issue is important, so I can't simply ignore it.

Practice

Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.