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
彼の苦しむ姿を見るに忍びない。
I cannot bear to see him suffer.
その話
The story was so sad that I couldn't bring myself to listen.
古い手紙を捨てるには忍びない。
I am reluctant to throw away old letters.