〜なしに／なしには／なしでは

Meaning

This grammar pattern expresses a hypothetical condition. It conveys the meaning of "in a state without something" — describing what happens or cannot happen when something is absent.

Formation

Examples

1. 彼らは、許可なしに立ち入り禁止エリアに入ったため、ひどく叱られた。
   They were severely scolded for entering a restricted area without permission.

2. 住民の理解なしにこの辺の土地を開発することは許されない。
   Developing the land in this area is not permitted without the understanding of the residents.

3. この暑さじゃクーラーなしでは、過ごせないだろう。
   In this heat, you probably couldn't get by without air conditioning.

4. 伊藤くんの協力なしに、このプロジェクトの成功はありえなかったよ。本当にありがとう。
   Without Ito-kun's cooperation, this project's success would have been impossible. Thank you so much.

5. この映画はとても評判が良く、観客は口々に「この映画は涙なしには見られない」と言っている。
   This movie has an excellent reputation, and the audience all say in unison, "You can't watch this movie without tears."

6. 私が病気を克服出来たのは、家族がそばにいてくれたからです。家族なしでは、きっと治療をあきらめていたと思います。
   The reason I was able to overcome my illness is that my family was by my side. Without my family, I am sure I would have given up on treatment.

Summary

• 「〜なしに／なしには／なしでは」means "without" or "if not for"
• Attaches to nouns or verb dictionary form + こと
• The expression 「涙なしには見られない」means you cannot watch without shedding tears, implying the story is sad or moving