expression, i-adjective
unable to stay healthy; ruining one's health; body can't take it
Used when physical strain, overwork, or lifestyle is pushing the body beyond its limits, often implying that one's health will break down if the situation continues. Commonly appears in warnings or self-reflection.
See also: 身が持たない
こんなに働き続けたら、体がもたないよ。
If I keep working like this, my body won't hold up.
徹夜が続いて、もう体がもたない。
After consecutive all-nighters, my body just can't take it anymore.
Synonymous expression; 身がもたない is less common and slightly more literary. Both mean the body cannot endure the strain.
Phrase composed of 体 (body) + が (subject marker) + もたない (negative potential form of 持つ, 'to hold' or 'to last'). Literally 'the body cannot hold out'.