忍しのびない

expression, i-adjective

cannot bear to do; cannot bring oneself to do; reluctant to do

Expresses a strong emotional reluctance or moral inability to do something, often because it would be too painful, cruel, or regrettable. Frequently used in the pattern ...に(は)忍びない.

See also: 忍ぶ

• 彼かれの苦くるしむ姿すがたを見みるに忍しのびない。

  I cannot bear to see him suffer.

• その話はなしはあまりに悲かなしくて聞きくに忍しのびなかった。

  The story was so sad that I couldn't bring myself to listen.

• 古ふるい手て紙がみを捨すてるには忍しのびない。

  I am reluctant to throw away old letters.