〜しかない

only option is to...; have no choice but to...

1. Overview

"〜しかない" is used to emphasize that there is no other option but to take a certain action. It conveys that the speaker is left with only one possible solution, often in a situation where other options are unavailable.

2. Structure

• Verb (dictionary form) + しかない
• Noun + しかない

3. Usage Explanation

1. Expressing the Only Option: Used when there is no other choice but to perform a certain action.

   • Example: もう帰るしかない。
     (There’s nothing to do but go home.)

2. Conveying a Sense of Resignation: It can also indicate that the speaker reluctantly acknowledges that a specific action is the only way forward.

   • Example: 彼が行かないなら、私が行くしかない。
     (If he won’t go, I have no choice but to go.)

4. Example Sentences

1. この仕事を終わらせるには、徹夜するしかない。
   (To finish this work, I have no choice but to stay up all night.)

2. お金がないので、バスで行くしかない。
   (Since I have no money, I’ll have to take the bus.)

3. 時間がないから、急ぐしかない。
   (Since there’s no time, we have no choice but to hurry.)

4. 彼が来ないなら、私が行くしかない。
   (If he doesn’t come, I’ll have no choice but to go.)

5. Key Points to Note

1. "〜しかない" emphasizes a sense of "no other choice" or "inevitability." It is often used to express resignation or acknowledgment that only one option remains.
2. The expression typically has a slightly negative or resigned tone, as it focuses on a lack of alternatives.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜ほかない: A similar structure that also means "there is no other choice," but it is more formal.
  • Example: もうやるしかない。 / もうやるほかない。
    (I have no choice but to do it.)

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜より仕方がない: Another formal way of expressing "there is no choice but to..." or "there's no way but to..."
  • Example: 彼を待つより仕方がない。
    (There’s nothing to do but wait for him.)

8. Summary

"〜しかない" is a grammar structure used to express that there is no other choice but to take a certain action. It conveys a sense of inevitability or resignation, emphasizing that only one solution or action is left. This structure often carries a negative or resigned tone, focusing on limited options.