Japanese grammar
What does ～にも（動詞） mean? Japanese grammar N1
～にも（動詞） means even if one wants to… (cannot).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | V意向形 + にも + ～ない |
| Romaji | nimo(doushi) |
| Meaning | even if one wants to… (cannot) |
Forming it
| Verb (buy) | 買おう + にも |
|---|---|
| Verb (retake) | 受けよう + にも |
How to use it
A shortened form of 「～ようにも～ない」: expresses wanting to do A but circumstances don't allow it.
- 「V意向形＋にも」 = even wanting to do A, it's not possible, due to some obstacle. It's a shortened form of 「～ようにも～ない」.
- The following clause states the reason for the obstacle, or is directly a negative potential form.
- Don't confuse with 「Vるにも」 (to do A one also needs…) — this pattern uses the VOLITIONAL form.
Examples
もう一度受けようにも、受験料が足りない。
I’d retake it, but I can’t even afford the fee.
買おうにも、店がもう閉まっていた。
I wanted to buy it, but the shop had already closed.
Keep in mind
- Uses the volitional form + にも.
- The clause that follows states an obstacle or negates a possibility.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong買うにも、店が閉まっていた。
Even if I wanted to buy it, I couldn't — the shop was closed.
Correct買おうにも、店が閉まっていた。
This pattern uses the VOLITIONAL form (買おう); dictionary form + にも carries a different meaning.
-
Wrong買おうにも、店が開いていた。
I wanted to buy it, but the shop was open.
Correct買おうにも、店が閉まっていた。
The following clause must state an OBSTACLE preventing the action.
Exam tips
- 「V意向形＋にも」 = wanting to do A isn't possible (shortened form of 「ようにも～ない」).