JLPT N2

〜te kara denai to

Indicates that something cannot be done before a certain action is completed; 'not until', 'only after'.

Formation

Explanation

The ~てからでないと grammar point is used to express that an action cannot be done before another action has been completed. It can be translated as 'not until' or 'only after' in English. It attaches to a verb in the て-form, plus からでないと.

Example sentences

  • You cannot go play until you’ve finished your homework.

    Shukudai o shite kara denai to, asobi ni ikemasen.

  • You cannot eat dessert until after having a meal.

    Shokuji o shite kara denai to, dezāto o taberaremasen.

  • You can’t watch the movie until after you buy a ticket.

    Chiketto o katte kara denai to, eiga o miraremasen.

  • You can’t take time off until the exam is over.

    Shiken ga owatte kara denai to, yasumi o toremasen.