ずにWithout doing
ずに connects one action or result to something that was not done: “without doing.” It is a compact, written-leaning alternative to the more conversational negative form.
How it works
The first verb names what does not happen, and the following verb gives the main action or result. In the ordinary “without doing” use, both verbs normally have the same understood doer.
Actions done without another action
Not always a deliberate choice
Although English often translates this as “without doing,” the missing action need not be intentional. The context may show that the person was unable to do it or that the expected state never occurred.
昨夜はほとんど眠れずに、朝を迎えた。
Last night I reached morning having barely been able to sleep.
AnalyzeHere the lack of sleep was not a deliberate decision.
The shorter form
In clear, compact combinations, に can be left out. This is common with familiar combinations such as 休まず and 迷わず.
選手たちは一度も休まず、最後まで走り続けた。
The athletes kept running to the end without taking a single break.
AnalyzeChoosing among three forms
For ordinary conversation, ないで is often the most natural choice. ずに is shorter and more writing-friendly, while ことなく is a more formal, expanded expression. These are tendencies rather than absolute rules.
More examples
説明書を読まずに機械を動かした。
I operated the machine without reading the instructions.
Analyze彼女は何も言わずに部屋を出た。
She left the room without saying anything.
Analyze昨夜はなかなか眠れずに、朝まで本を読んでいた。
Last night I could not get to sleep, so I read until morning.
Analyze予約をせずに店へ行ったら、満席だった。
When I went to the restaurant without making a reservation, it was full.
Analyze彼は誰にも頼らず、自分で問題を解決した。
He solved the problem himself without relying on anyone.
Analyze鍵をかけずに寝てしまった。
I accidentally went to sleep without locking the door.
Analyze休日も休まず働いた。
I worked without taking a break even on my days off.
Analyze身分証を持たずに入館することはできません。
You cannot enter the building without carrying identification.
Analyze