あるようでない

expression, i-adjective

seemingly should exist but doesn't; not existing despite appearances

Used when something feels like it ought to exist or be available, but in reality it does not. Often expresses a mild surprise or disappointment at the absence of something expected.

• この町まちには、あるようでないものが多おおい。

  In this town, there are many things that seem like they should exist but don't.

• 彼かれの話はなしは、あるようでない不ふ思し議ぎな内ない容ようだった。

  His story was a strange one, seeming plausible yet not quite real.