Meaning
〜ざるを得ない expresses the meaning of being forced or compelled to do something, often reluctantly. It indicates that despite one's reluctance or disapproval, there is no alternative but to take the action. The pattern conveys a sense of inevitability and constraint, showing that the speaker feels obligated to do something they would prefer not to do.
Formation
| Part of speech | Formation |
|---|---|
| 動詞（ない形） | ざるを得ない |
| 動詞（する）せ | ざるを得ない |
Examples
-
この島はとても小さいので、食料などは輸入に頼らざるを得ない状態だ。
Since this island is very small, food and other supplies have no choice but to rely on imports. -
あの俳優は撮影中にけがをしたため、明日の撮影は中止せざるを得なくなった。
That actor was injured during filming, so tomorrow's shoot had to be canceled unavoidably. -
この町にある空港は利用者数が大幅に減少し、深刻な赤字になったため、閉港せざるを得なかった。
The airport in this city experienced a sharp decline in passengers and fell into serious deficit, so it had no choice but to close.
Summary
- Used with negative form of verb (ない形) + ざるを得ない, or with suru verbs as せざるを得ない
- Expresses reluctant necessity or being forced by circumstances to do something undesirable
- Conveys the speaker's feeling of being compelled with no other option available