Translation guide
The English word 'impossible' is used to describe things that cannot happen, be done, or be true. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 不可能 (fukanō), but natural expression often depends on context. For everyday speech, phrases like 無理 (muri) or できない (dekinai) are more common. This guide covers formal, casual, and nuanced ways to express impossibility.
Expressing that an action or goal cannot be accomplished.
Common in casual and spoken Japanese. Means 'impossible', 'unreasonable', or 'can't be done'. Often used when something is beyond one's ability or too difficult.
It's impossible to do everything alone.
That's obviously impossible.
The potential negative form of する (to do). Literally 'cannot do'. Very common and neutral. Use when something is not possible due to ability, circumstances, or rules.
I can't finish it by tomorrow.
Formal and written. Direct equivalent of 'impossible'. Used in official statements, news, or technical contexts.
Grammar pattern meaning 'cannot afford to do' or 'it is impossible (due to obligation/morals)'. Used when something is not allowed by social norms or personal principles.
I can't break my promise. (It's impossible for me to do so.)
Pattern meaning 'there is no way that...' or 'it cannot be that...'. Expresses strong disbelief or logical impossibility.
It's impossible that he would do such a thing.
Reacting to something surprising or hard to believe.
Literally 'cannot exist/be'. Very common in casual speech to mean 'no way!', 'unbelievable!', or 'that's impossible!'.
What? You already finished? That's impossible!
Interjection meaning 'no way!', 'it can't be!'. Often used when hearing unexpected news.
Means 'I can't believe it'. Used for both positive and negative surprises.
I can't believe something like this happened.
Describing a task or situation that is too hard or demanding.
無理 (muri) is casual and often implies something is unreasonable or too hard. 不可能 (fukanō) is formal and factual. できない (dekinai) is neutral and simply states inability. Use 無理 in conversation, 不可能 in writing or formal speech, and できない in most everyday situations.
This job is impossible for me. (casual)
This task is impossible. (formal)
I cannot do this job. (neutral)
Using 不可能 (fukanō) in casual conversation can sound stiff or overly dramatic. Stick to 無理 or できない unless you need a formal tone.
It's impossible to finish this by tomorrow.
I can't solve this problem.
Realizing that plan is impossible.
Make the impossible possible.
I can't give up here.
That can't be true.
No way, I can't believe he's quitting.
This problem is impossible for me to handle.