〜わけにはいかない
JLPT N3:can't (because of circumstances)
Says you cannot do something because of duty, circumstances or what people would think — not because it is physically impossible.
How to form it
- Put the verb in the dictionary form and add わけにはいかない: 休むわけにはいかない (I can't take the day off).
- With the ない form, it means you have to: 行かないわけにはいかない (I can't not go).
- The polite form is わけにはいきません.
Examples
今日は大事な会議があるから、休むわけにはいかない。
I've got an important meeting today, so I can't take the day off.
招待されたので、行かないわけにはいかない。
I've been invited, so I can't not go.
Common mistakes
- Using it for ability. For "I can't swim", say 泳げない.
Similar meaning
- 〜ざるをえないhave no choice but to
"Have no choice but to"; formal.
- 〜なければならないmust / have to
"Must": a plain statement of obligation.