Japanese grammar
What does ～なしには～ない mean? Japanese grammar N1
～なしには～ない means cannot… without… (formal).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + なしには + ～ない |
| Romaji | nashiniha nai |
| Meaning | cannot… without… (formal) |
Forming it
| Abstract noun | 努力 + なしには |
|---|---|
| Noun (feeling) | 愛情 + なしには |
How to use it
Like 「なしでは」 but more formal/literary; often used with abstract nouns.
- 「～なしには～ない」 = without A, B is not possible. More formal than 「なしでは」, often paired with ABSTRACT nouns (努力・愛情・協力).
- The latter clause must be negative or a negative potential form.
- In the same family as 「なくして(は)」 (the most literary).
Examples
努力なしには何も得られない。
Without effort, nothing can be gained.
周囲の協力なしにはこの成果はあり得なかった。
Without those around me, this achievement would have been impossible.
Keep in mind
- The following clause must be negative.
- Often used with abstract nouns.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong努力なしには成功できる。
Without effort, one cannot succeed.
Correct努力なしには成功できない。
The latter clause MUST be negative.
-
Wrong水なしには、のどが渇いた。
Without effort, one cannot hope to succeed.
Correct努力なしには、成功は望めない。
The latter clause must be something that CANNOT happen when A is missing, not an isolated event.
Exam tips
- 「なしには～ない」 = without A, B is not possible (formal, abstract nouns).