GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜わけにはいかない
Indicates that an action is possible in itself but cannot be taken because of responsibility or social circumstances.
Examples
責任者として問題を知りながら黙っているわけにはいかない。
As the person in charge, I cannot remain silent when I know about the problem.
Words used
約束した以上、途中でやめるわけにはいかない。
Now that I have made a promise, I cannot quit halfway through.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
わけにはいかないpresents responsibility, a promise, or social circumstances as preventing an action, rather than describing ability itself. - Basic usage:
約束した以上、途中でやめるわけにはいかない。means that keeping a promise prevents quitting halfway through.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Unlike lack of ability
泳げないcan indicate a lack of swimming ability or circumstances that make swimming impossible.ここを離れるわけにはいかないmeans that a reason such as responsibility prevents choosing to leave this place.
- A preceding negative creates an obligation
行くわけにはいかないgives circumstances that prevent going, whereas行かないわけにはいかないgives circumstances that prevent not going. The latter rules out absence as an option and therefore means one must go.