Verb ずじまい JLPT N1

Formation

Verb-ない form (remove ない) + ずじまい

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.

Example sentences

• 日本へ来たのに、一度も富士山を見ずじまいで帰国してしまった。

  I came to Japan but ended up going home without ever getting to see Mt. Fuji.

  Nihon e kita noni, ichidomo Fuji-san o mizu jimai de kikoku shite shimatta.

• 出張のため、彼女に会わずじまいだった。

  Because I was on a business trip, I ended up not meeting her.

  Shucchō no tame, kanojo ni awazu jimai datta.

• 昨日は疲れすぎて、宿題をせずじまいだ。

  I was too tired yesterday and ended up not doing my homework.

  Kinō wa tsukare-sugite, shukudai o sezu jimai da.

• 着物を買ったが、結局、一度も着ずじまいだ。

  I bought a kimono, but in the end, I never got the chance to wear it.

  Kimono o katta ga, kekkyoku, ichido mo kizu jimai da.