Japanese grammar
What does ～だけではすまない mean? Japanese grammar N1
～だけではすまない means cannot be resolved simply by…; not enough just to….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + だけではすまない V普通形 + だけではすまない |
| Romaji | dakedehasumanai |
| Meaning | cannot be resolved simply by…; not enough just to… |
Forming it
| Noun | 謝罪 + だけではすまない |
|---|---|
| Verb | 謝る + だけではすまない |
How to use it
States that doing/having only A isn't enough to settle things — a heavier consequence must also be borne.
- 「～だけではすまない」 = "A alone won't do": the consequence exceeds A, and more must be done/borne.
- Often used when talking about responsibility after wrongdoing: 「謝罪だけではすまない」.
- Close to 「～ではすまない」; adding 「だけ」 clearly emphasizes "that alone isn't enough".
Examples
これほどの事故は謝罪だけではすまないだろう。
An accident this serious won’t be settled with an apology alone.
納期を守れなければ、違約金だけではすまない。
If we miss the deadline, a penalty payment won’t be the end of it.
Keep in mind
- Attaches to a noun or the plain form.
- The following clause usually states a heavier consequence.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong謝罪だけではすまないので、安心した。
An apology alone wasn't enough, so I felt relieved.
Correct謝罪だけではすまないので、責任を取ることになった。
The following clause states a HEAVIER consequence to bear, not a relieving outcome.
-
Wrong謝るだけすまない。
An apology alone won't settle it.
Correct謝るだけではすまない。
The full structure is 「だけでは + すまない」 — don't drop 「では」.
Exam tips
- 「だけではすまない」 = that alone won't settle it (there's a heavier consequence).