GRAMMAR DETAIL
ずにはすまない
Indicates that a situation cannot be settled without taking a necessary action, such as apologizing or making restitution, because of wrongdoing or responsibility.
Examples
図書館の本を汚したので、弁償せずにはすまない。
Since I damaged a library book, I cannot let the matter pass without paying for it.
Words used
約束を破ったなら、謝らずにはすまない。
If you broke your promise, you cannot let the matter pass without apologizing.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure: Attach
ずにはすまないto the verb stem used beforeないto show that responsibility makes the action necessary before the matter can be settled. - Basic usage:
約束を破ったなら、謝らずにはすまない。means that breaking a promise brings a responsibility to apologize.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Special form of する
するbecomesせず, notしず, giving弁償せずにはすまない.謝るconnects as謝らずにはすまない.
- Reason compared with ずにはいられない
謝らずにはすまないexpresses a responsibility to put a wrong right.笑わずにはいられないexpresses an urge to laugh that cannot be held back.