〜を禁じえない

Cannot help but...; Cannot refrain from...

1. Overview

The expression "〜を禁じえない" is used to indicate that a person cannot suppress a certain emotion, behavior, or reaction. It is often used to describe strong feelings or actions that are uncontrollable in a given situation.

2. Structure

• Verb (plain form) + を禁じえない
  This structure expresses that an emotion or behavior cannot be suppressed or avoided.

3. Usage Explanation

• Expressing uncontrollable emotions or reactions:
  This structure is used to convey the idea that someone cannot control their emotions or reactions in a specific situation, especially strong feelings like sadness, anger, or joy.

• Implying something unavoidable:
  It emphasizes the idea of being "unable to control" or "unable to avoid" a feeling or action, often carrying a sense of self-reproach or helplessness.

• English translation:
  It can be translated as "cannot help but..." or "cannot refrain from...".

4. Example Sentences

1. 彼はその話を聞いて、感動を禁じえなかった。
   He could not help but be moved when he heard that story.

2. 彼女は涙を禁じえず、号泣した。
   She could not refrain from crying and burst into tears.

3. その映画を見て、笑いを禁じえなかった。
   After watching the movie, I couldn't help but laugh.

4. 彼は怒りを禁じえず、その場を立ち去った。
   He couldn't suppress his anger and left the place.

5. そのニュースを聞いて、驚きを禁じえなかった。
   Upon hearing the news, I could not help but be astonished.

5. Key Points

• Tone:
  This expression typically conveys a sense of helplessness or strong emotional fluctuation, indicating an inability to control one's feelings.

• Formality:
  "〜を禁じえない" is usually used in written or formal contexts, emphasizing a lack of control over one's emotions.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜を抑えきれない: Used to express being unable to suppress an emotion or behavior.
  • Example: 彼は興奮を抑えきれなかった。
    He couldn't suppress his excitement.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜を堪えられない: Emphasizes being unable to endure or control a certain emotion.
  • Example: その言葉を聞いて、悲しみを堪えられなかった。
    Hearing those words, I could not endure my sadness.

8. Summary

"〜を禁じえない" is used to describe emotions or reactions that cannot be suppressed or controlled, emphasizing a lack of self-control over one's feelings. This expression is often used when describing intense emotions that cannot be contained, particularly in moments of emotional upheaval.