Verb ないものだろうか JLPT N1

Verb nai mono darou ka

Expressing hope or wonder if something can be done: 'Isn't there a way...?', 'Can't we...?'

Formation

Verb-negative (often negative potential) + ものだろうか

Explanation

This grammar point is used when the speaker expresses the hope, wish, or wonder if an action could be possible. It creates the nuance of 'Isn't there some way...?' or 'Can't I/you/we...?' in English, often with the negative potential form.

Example sentences

もっと時間があれば、ここに来られないものだろうか。

If I had more time, wouldn't it be possible to come here?

Motto jikan ga areba, koko ni korarenai mono darou ka.
彼女にもっとよく説明すれば、理解できないものだろうか。

If I explain it better to her, wouldn't she understand?

Kanojo ni motto yoku setsumei sureba, rikai dekinai mono darou ka.
この問題を解決する方法はないものだろうか。

Isn't there a way to solve this problem?

Kono mondai o kaiketsu suru houhou wa nai mono darou ka.
自分の間違いを認められないものだろうか。

Can't I admit my own mistakes?

Jibun no machigai o mitomerarenai mono darou ka.