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    ～ことはできない (koto wa dekinai - cannot do ~)

    Grammar & Usage

    grammar pattern / fixed expression
    neutral to formal

    How it works

    Formed by attaching the nominalizing noun こと (koto) to the dictionary form (plain non-past) of a verb, followed by the topic marker は (wa) and the potential negative verb できない (dekinai). It is used to state that an action cannot be performed due to capability, rules, external circumstances, or moral/psychological impossibility. Compared to simple potential verbs (e.g., 食べられない), this structure sounds more formal, emphatic, and objective.

    Sample sentences

    そんな理不尽な要求を受け入れることはできない。

    I cannot accept such an unreasonable demand.

    パスポートがなければ、出国することはできません。

    Without a passport, you cannot leave the country.

    彼の努力と成果を否定することはできない。

    One cannot deny his effort and achievements.

    Quick facts

    connection:Verb (dictionary form) + ことはできない / ことはできません
    jlpt_level:N4/N3
    nuance_note:Often emphasizes circumstantial, legal, or moral impossibility rather than mere physical inability.
    politeness_level:Plain form (polite equivalent: ～ことはできません)

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    そんな理不尽な要求を受け入れることはできない。

    I cannot accept such an unreasonable demand.

    パスポートがなければ、出国することはできません。

    Without a passport, you cannot leave the country.

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