Japanese grammar
What does ～にも～ない mean? Japanese grammar N1
～にも～ない means even if one wants to…, one cannot….
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | V意向形 + にも + 同V可能形 + ない |
| Romaji | nimo nai |
| Meaning | even if one wants to…, one cannot… |
Forming it
| Verb (run) | 走ろう + にも + 走れ + ない |
|---|---|
| Verb (understand) | 理解しよう + にも + 理解でき + ない |
How to use it
The full repeated form: the first clause is volitional, the second uses the SAME verb in the negative potential.
- 「～にも～ない」 repeats the SAME verb: "wanting to do A, but A just isn't possible". Synonymous with 「～ようにも～ない」.
- The second clause MUST be a negative potential form (走れない・理解できない).
- The obstacle is objective, stated either beforehand or within the same sentence.
Examples
説明が矛盾していて、理解しようにも理解できない。
The explanation contradicts itself — I couldn’t understand it if I tried.
足がしびれて、走ろうにも走れなかった。
My legs went numb; I couldn’t run even though I wanted to.
Keep in mind
- Both clauses use the same verb.
- The clause that follows is a negated potential form.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong走ろうにも歩けない。
Even wanting to run, I can't even walk.
Correct走ろうにも走れない。
The two clauses must use the SAME verb.
-
Wrong走ろうにも走らない。
Even wanting to run, I can't run.
Correct走ろうにも走れない。
The second clause is a negative POTENTIAL form (走れない), not a negative volitional.
Exam tips
- 「にも～ない」 = the repeated form, both clauses share the same verb, second clause is negative potential.