Explanation
Expressing regret for not having done something; not being able to; missing the chance to do it.
Formation
Verb-ない form (remove ない) + ずじまい
Detailed explanation
The grammar point ～ずじまい (~zu jimai) is used to express regret for not doing something, not being able to do it, or not getting the chance to do it. It highlights an action that ultimately never happened, despite intentions or opportunities.
Examples
Nihon e kita noni, ichidomo Fuji-san o mizu jimai de kikoku shite shimatta.
I came to Japan but ended up going home without ever getting to see Mt. Fuji.
Shucchō no tame, kanojo ni awazu jimai datta.
Because I was on a business trip, I ended up not meeting her.
Kinō wa tsukare-sugite, shukudai o sezu jimai da.
I was too tired yesterday and ended up not doing my homework.
Kimono o katta ga, kekkyoku, ichido mo kizu jimai da.
I bought a kimono, but in the end, I never got the chance to wear it.
Practice
Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.