GrammarJLPT N1Verb ずにはおかない (~zuni wa okanai)

Verb ずにはおかない (~zuni wa okanai)

JLPT N1

Explanation

Expresses 'cannot help but...', 'will definitely...', or 'must do something'.

Formation

Verb-ない form (remove ない) + ずにはおかない

Detailed Explanation

The ずにはおかない grammar point conveys the sentiment of an inevitable action or a strong emotional compulsion. It can mean 'I can’t let it pass without doing X' or 'I definitely will do X'.

Examples

彼が困っていると聞いたら、助けずにはおかない。

Kare ga komatte iru to kiitara, tasukezuni wa okanai.

If I hear he is in trouble, I cannot help but assist him.

食事の準備がこのままだと、手伝わずにはおかないだろう。

Shokuji no junbi ga kono mama da to, tetsudawazuni wa okanai darō.

If the meal prep stays like this, I won't be able to stop myself from helping.

この問題が解決しないなら、改善策を考えずにはおかない。

Kono mondai ga kaiketsu shinai nara, kaizen-saku o kangaezuni wa okanai.

If this issue isn't resolved, I can't help but think of a solution.

彼女が泣いているのを見たら、慰めずにはおかない。

Kanojo ga naite iru no o mitara, nagusamezuni wa okanai.

When I see her crying, I cannot help but comfort her.

Grammar content sourced from hanabira.org.