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JLPT N1 Very formal / literary

~zuni wa okanai

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

Formal, literary "will inevitably.../is bound to" - emphasizes an unavoidable natural consequence.

Formation

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'.

Example sentences

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

    Kare ga komatte iru to kiitara, tasukezuni wa okanai.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inevitable (Cannot Help But)