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Unable to; difficult to
Definition
The grammar pattern "V-masu + かねる" is used to express inability or difficulty in a polite or formal manner. It is often employed when the speaker feels hesitant or when a professional refusal is necessary. This pattern is particularly useful in situations where a direct refusal might be considered impolite or unprofessional. The use of "かねる" implies that the speaker is unable to do something due to various reasons, such as lack of ability, resources, or knowledge.
Structure
| Form | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Masu form of the verb | V-masu + かねる | 分かる + かねる → 分かりかねる |
| Masu form of the verb (in the negative form) | V-masen + かねる | 分からない + かねる → 分からないかねる |
| Masu form of the verb (in the polite form) | V-masaru + かねる | 分かる + かねる → 分かるかねる |
Examples
申し訳ございませんが、私共では分かりかねます。
Moushiwake gozaimasen ga, watashi-tachi wa wakarikane masu.
I'm sorry, but I'm afraid we can't understand it.
申し訳ございませんが (I'm sorry, but) + 私共では (we) + 分かりかねます (can't understand)
そのご提案には、賛成いたしかねます。
Sono go teian ni wa, sansei itashikane masu.
I'm afraid I can't agree with your proposal.
そのご提案には (with your proposal) + 賛成いたしかねます (can't agree)
あまりにも残酷な光景に、正視しかねます。
Amari ni mo zankoku na kōkei ni, seishishikane masu.
I'm afraid I can't bear to look at such a cruel scene.
あまりにも (too) + 残酷な (cruel) + 光景に (scene) + 正視しかねます (can't bear to look)
Context
This pattern is typically used in formal or professional settings, such as business meetings, job interviews, or official documents. It is also used when the speaker feels hesitant or unsure about their ability to do something. Avoid using this pattern in casual conversations or with verbs that don't imply a professional or formal refusal.
Watch out
This pattern is too formal for casual conversations, and using it with verbs that don't imply a professional or formal refusal can sound awkward or insincere.
These two patterns are often confused due to their similar forms, but they have distinct meanings and uses.
This pattern is too formal for casual conversations, and using it in very casual situations can sound awkward or insincere.
Strategy
When using this pattern in the JLPT exam, make sure to use the correct form of the verb and the correct context. Avoid using this pattern in casual conversations or with verbs that don't imply a professional or formal refusal.
In context
Worked examples drawn from JLPT N2 test-style questions. Each sentence shows V-masu + かねる used correctly, with a brief note on what the pattern is doing.
申し訳ございませんが、私共では分かりかねます。
Pattern used: かねます
～かねます is a polite way to say 'cannot' in business Japanese.
そのご提案には、賛成いたしかねます。
Pattern used: かねます
Used to refuse a proposal politely but firmly.
あまりにも残酷な光景に、正視しかねた。
Pattern used: かねた
正視しかねる means being unable to look at something because it is too painful or shocking.
Interactive
申し訳ございませんが、私共では分かり______。
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on this grammar pattern and track your progress toward mastery.