Japanese grammar
What does ～ではないか／～じゃないか mean? Japanese grammar N2
～ではないか／～じゃないか means isn't it…? (emphasis, inviting agreement).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Plain form + ではないか V意向形 + ではないか |
| Romaji | dehanaika／janaika |
| Meaning | isn't it…? (emphasis, inviting agreement) |
Forming it
| Emphasis | 立派だ → 立派ではないか |
|---|---|
| Invitation | 行こう → 行こうではないか |
How to use it
Two directions: (a) emphasizing an obvious point to persuade; (b) a strong invitation using the volitional form.
- Direction (a) EMPHASIS: 「彼は立派にやり遂げたではないか」 (he did finish it properly, didn't he) — not a real question, but an assertion meant to persuade.
- Direction (b) INVITATION: 「みんなで力を合わせようではないか」 (come on, let's join forces) — formal, often used in speeches.
- Colloquially shortened to 「じゃないか」. This is NOT a real question, so it does not need to be answered.
Examples
彼は最後までやり遂げたではないか。もっと評価すべきだ。
He saw it through to the end, did he not? He deserves more credit.
みんなで力を合わせて、この問題を解決しようではないか。
Let us join forces and solve this problem, shall we?
Keep in mind
- Not a real question.
- For an invitation, use the volitional form + 「ではないか」.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong（部長に）このアイデアはいいではないか。
This idea is good, I think.
Correct（部長に）このアイデアはいいと思います。
「ではないか」 is a casual, emphatic way of speaking; speaking to a superior requires a polite form such as 「～と思います」.
-
Wrong行くではないか、みんなで。
Let's all go together, shall we?
Correct行こうではないか、みんなで。
The invitational meaning requires the VOLITIONAL FORM.
Exam tips
- 「ではないか」 = isn't it… (emphasis) / 「volitional form＋ではないか」 = come on, let's…