〜に〜できない

Cannot...; Unable to...

1. Overview

The structure 「〜に〜できない」 is used to express a lack of ability or possibility, indicating that a person or thing is unable to perform a certain action or achieve a specific state in a given situation.

2. Structure

• Noun + に + Verb (potential form) + できない
• Verb (plain form) + に + できない

3. Usage Explanation

• Expressing Inability:
  This structure is used to indicate that, due to certain reasons, a person or thing cannot perform a particular action, often emphasizing limitations or obstacles.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "cannot..." or "unable to...", highlighting a certain impossibility.

4. Example Sentences

1. この仕事は一人ではできない。
   This job cannot be done alone.

2. 日本語はまだうまく話せないにしても、少しは理解できる。
   Even though I can't speak Japanese well yet, I can understand a little.

3. その問題は簡単には解決できない。
   That problem cannot be easily solved.

4. 大声では言えないにしても、心の中で思っている。
   Although I cannot say it out loud, I think it in my heart.

5. その計画は時間がないとできない。
   That plan cannot be executed without time.

5. Key Points to Note

• Emphasizing Limitations:
  This structure emphasizes that a specific action cannot be carried out due to particular reasons.

• Can Be Combined with Various Verbs:
  It can be used with a variety of verbs to form different sentences.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜することができない: Expresses the inability to do something.
  • Example: その仕事をすることができない。
    I cannot do that job.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ない: Used to express a negative situation.
  • Example: 彼はその問題を解決できない。
    He cannot solve that problem.

8. Summary

「〜に〜できない」 is a useful structure for expressing a lack of ability or possibility, emphasizing that a particular action cannot be completed or realized in specific situations.