〜ほかない

have no choice but to...; there is nothing else but...

1. Overview

"〜ほかない" is used to convey that there is only one solution or action that can be taken. It is often used in situations where the speaker has exhausted other possibilities and must accept the only remaining option.

2. Structure

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

3. Usage Explanation

1. Expressing the Lack of Alternatives: Used when there are no other options left, and the speaker must do something as the only choice.

   • Example: もう待つほかない。
     (There’s no choice but to wait.)

2. Indicating Inevitability: It can be used to express that, in a given situation, something inevitable will happen or must be done.

   • Example: これを諦めるほかない。
     (I have no choice but to give this up.)

4. Example Sentences

1. この問題を解決するには、もう一度話し合うほかない。
   (To solve this issue, there’s no choice but to discuss it again.)

2. 彼が来ないなら、私たちが行くほかない。
   (If he doesn’t come, we’ll have no choice but to go.)

3. 天気が悪いので、家にいるほかない。
   (Since the weather is bad, I have no choice but to stay home.)

4. 終電がないので、歩いて帰るほかない。
   (Since there’s no last train, I have no choice but to walk home.)

5. Key Points to Note

1. "〜ほかない" is often used in formal or written language, but it can also be used in spoken Japanese, especially in situations where the speaker wants to express resignation or inevitability.
2. It is similar to "〜しかない" but is typically more formal in tone.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜しかない: This structure is also used to express "no choice but to..." but is more commonly used in spoken language and has a slightly more casual tone.
  • Example: 行くしかない。
    (I have no choice but to go.)

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜より仕方がない: Another formal structure that conveys "there is no choice but to..." It is often used in a resigned tone.
  • Example: あきらめるより仕方がない。
    (There’s nothing to do but give up.)

8. Summary

"〜ほかない" is used to express that there is no other option or choice left. It emphasizes the inevitability of taking a particular action or accepting a certain outcome. While similar to "〜しかない," it is more formal and often conveys a stronger sense of finality or resignation.