Japanese grammar
What does ～かねない mean? Japanese grammar N2
～かねない means there is a risk of…; might well (lead to a bad result).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vます (drop ます) + かねない |
| Romaji | kanenai |
| Meaning | there is a risk of…; might well (lead to a bad result) |
Forming it
| Connection | Vます (drop ます) + かねない |
|---|
How to use it
States the RISK of something bad happening. Only used for a negative outcome.
- 「～かねない」 = there is a risk, it could well happen (something BAD). Attaches to the MASU-STEM.
- Only used for a negative outcome — 「合格しかねない」 is wrong.
- Don't confuse it with 「～かねる」 (hard to do, an almost opposite meaning).
Examples
このままでは事故が起こりかねない。
At this rate, an accident could happen.
その言い方は誤解を招きかねません。
That wording could invite misunderstanding.
Keep in mind
- Only for a bad result.
- Distinguish from 「かねる」 (hard to do).
Common mistakes
-
Wrong事故が起こるかねない。
Correct事故が起こりかねない。
Connects with the masu-stem: 起こります → 起こりかねない.
Exam tips
- 「かねない」 = there's a risk of (something BAD); different from 「かねる」 (hard to do).