〜なくて

because (I) do not...; without doing...

1. Overview

The expression 「〜なくて」 is used in Japanese to indicate a reason or cause for a situation, translating roughly to "because (I) do not..." or "without doing...". It is often used to connect clauses where the first clause provides a reason for the second clause.

2. Structure

3. Usage Explanation

• Connecting Two Clauses:

  • 「〜なくて」 connects two clauses where the first clause explains the reason for the state or action in the second clause.

• Negative Reasoning:

  • It emphasizes that the lack of action (expressed in the first clause) is the reason for the situation described in the second clause.

• Translation:

  • Typically translated as “because (I) do not...” or “without doing...”.

4. Example Sentences

1. 宿題をしなくて、遊びに行った。
   (I went out to play because I didn't do my homework.)

2. お金がなくて、旅行に行けない。
   (I can't go on a trip because I don't have money.)

3. 彼女は忙しくて、手伝えなかった。
   (She was busy, so she couldn't help.)

4. 運動しなくて、体がだるい。
   (I'm feeling sluggish because I haven't exercised.)

5. パソコンが壊れて、仕事ができなかった。
   (I couldn't work because my computer was broken.)

5. Notes

• Context:

  • 「〜なくて」 is useful for explaining reasons and is commonly used in both spoken and written language.

• Form Changes:

  • Be aware of how the negative form of verbs or adjectives changes to create this structure.

6. Summary

「〜なくて」 is a grammatical construction that indicates a reason or cause based on the non-execution of an action, making it essential for expressing reasoning in conversations.