〜かねる

Unable to...; Cannot...

1. Overview

「〜かねる」is an expression used to indicate that something is difficult or impossible to do, either because it is emotionally challenging or due to circumstances that make it impractical. It is often used in formal settings to politely decline or express reluctance.

2. Structure

• Verb (ます-form stem) + かねる
  Used to show that one cannot do something due to internal conflict, limitations, or other obstacles.

3. Usage Explanation

• Polite Refusal:
  「〜かねる」can be used to politely refuse a request, often with a nuance of reluctance or regret, indicating that it is challenging or impossible to fulfill.

• Circumstantial Limitation:
  It’s also used to indicate that circumstances make something unfeasible, suggesting the speaker is held back by limitations outside of their control.

• English Translation:
  It can be translated as "unable to..." or "cannot..."

4. Example Sentences

1. ご提案には賛成しかねます。
   I cannot agree with your proposal.

2. それについてはお答えしかねます。
   I’m unable to answer that.

3. そんな要求は受け入れかねる。
   I can’t accept such a demand.

4. その計画には参加しかねます。
   I cannot participate in that plan.

5. 彼の行動は理解しかねる。
   I find it difficult to understand his actions.

5. Key Points to Note

• Formal and Polite:
  「〜かねる」is often used in formal language and conveys a sense of regret or reluctance, making it ideal for polite refusals.

• Not Used for Physical Inability:
  This expression is generally reserved for situations that involve emotional or circumstantial limitations, not physical inability.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜がたい: Used to express that something is difficult to do, often due to emotional reasons or personal conflict.
  • Example: 信じがたい話だ。
    It’s a hard story to believe.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜わけにはいかない: Indicates that something cannot be done due to societal, personal, or ethical constraints.
  • Example: 明日は休むわけにはいかない。
    I cannot take a break tomorrow.

8. Summary

「〜かねる」expresses polite refusal or inability to do something due to internal or circumstantial constraints, often seen in formal language. It is commonly used to convey reluctance or difficulty in politely declining or explaining why something cannot be done.