〜しかない

Meaning

This pattern indicates that there is only one choice or limited quantity available, with no other options. It conveys a sense of resignation or helplessness about the situation. The structure combines a verb or noun with しかない to emphasize the lack of alternatives.

Formation

Examples

1. もう終電がなくなったから、タクシーで帰るしかない。
   Since the last train is gone, I have no choice but to go home by taxi.

2. 海外旅行でお金をたくさん使ったから、今、貯金は少ししかないです。
   I spent a lot of money on overseas travel, so now I only have a little savings left.

3. 君にとってはこれはただの手紙でしかないかもしれませんが、わたしにとっては大切な思い出です。
   To you this might be nothing but a letter, but to me it is a precious memory.

Summary

• Use しかない with dictionary form verbs or nouns to mean 'only; have no choice but to'
• Conveys the speaker's sense of helplessness or resignation about limited options
• Shows that there is only one way or a very limited quantity with no alternatives