HomeGrammarJLPT N3~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 N3

Explanation

Expresses that something cannot be allowed or permitted due to social/moral obligations.

Formation

Detailed explanation

The ~わけにはいかない grammar point is used to express that a particular action cannot be taken due to social or moral obligations, responsibilities, or natural consequences. It often translates as 'I can't afford to...' or 'I can't just...' in English.

Examples

Konna tokoro de neru wake ni wa ikanai.

I can't possibly sleep in a place like this.

Shiken ga ashita dakara, asobi ni iku wake ni wa ikanai.

I can't afford to go out to have fun, since the exam is tomorrow.

Konna ni takai mono wo kau wake ni wa ikanai.

I can't allow myself to purchase something so expensive.

Taichou ga warui kara, paatii ni sanka suru wake ni wa ikanai.

Since I'm not feeling well, I can't attend the party.

Practice

Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.