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JLPT N2 Neutral

〜sou ni nai

Express the unlikelihood of something happening; 'not likely', 'doesn't seem'.

"Doesn't seem likely to happen". (Near-duplicate of n1-122 - same construction, taught at both N1 and N2.)

Formation

Explanation

The ～そうにない grammar point is used to indicate that something does not appear likely to happen. Often translated as 'doesn't seem like' or 'not likely to...'. Attach そうにない to the verb stem or adjective stem.

Example sentences

  • It doesn't seem like this rain will stop.

    Kono ame wa yami sou ni nai.

  • It doesn't look like he'll pass the exam.

    Kare ga shiken ni goukaku shi sou ni nai.

  • This dish doesn't look like it will be tasty.

    Kono ryouri ga oishisou ni nai.

  • This room doesn't seem likely to be clean.

    Kono heya wa kirei sou ni nai.

Unlikely / Impossible