Translation guide
Expressing that something cannot be done or is impossible in Japanese.
To say that something is not possible or cannot be done.
Use the potential negative form of a verb to express inability. For ru-verbs, replace 〜る with 〜られない; for u-verbs, change the final -u to -e and add ない; for irregular verbs, する becomes できない and くる becomes こられない.
I can't read kanji.
I can't come tomorrow.
A more formal or emphatic way to say 'cannot do'. Used in writing or formal speech.
I cannot solve this problem.
Means 'impossible' or 'unreasonable'. Often used in casual conversation to refuse or state impossibility.
It's impossible to finish by today.
Formal word for 'impossible'. Used in technical or serious contexts.
That plan is impossible.
To express that a situation makes something impossible.
Used when something cannot be done due to social or moral obligations, not lack of ability. 'Cannot afford to do' or 'must not do'.
I can't break my promise.
Expresses that there is no other choice but to do something. Implies that other options are not possible.
There's no bus, so we have no choice but to walk.
To say that something is not permitted.
Standard way to say 'must not do' or 'not allowed to do'.
You must not take photos here.
Can imply prohibition in certain contexts, similar to 'it is not possible (because it's not allowed)'.
You cannot smoke here.
できない is the standard way to say 'cannot do'. 無理 is more casual and emphatic, often implying the task is unreasonable or too much to ask.
I can't do that.
That's impossible / no way.