「〜てもどうにもならない」- Expressing Futility
Explanation
In Japanese, 〜てもどうにもならない is an expression used to convey that even if a certain action or state is taken, it won't make a difference or solve the problem. In other words, no matter what measures are taken, the situation remains unchanged.
Grammar Pattern
| Grammar Point | Connection | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 〜てもどうにもならない | Verb て-form + も + どうにもならない | Indicates that even if the action or state in the preceding clause is taken, it won't help or solve the problem. |
Basic Usage
This expression is commonly used in both everyday conversations and written language to express a sense of helplessness in the face of an unchangeable situation. It is formed by using the て-form of a verb (動て形) followed by "も" and then "どうにもならない."
Examples
過 ぎ去 れば後悔 してもどうにもならない。- Sugisareba koukai shite mo dou ni mo naranai.
- Once it's over, regretting it won't change anything.
病気 や天災 など、神 に祈 ってもどうにもならないこともある。- Byouki ya tensai nado, kami ni inotte mo dou ni mo naranai koto mo aru.
- There are things like illness or natural disasters where even praying to God won't help.
努力 してもどうにもならないことはたくさんある。- Doryoku shite mo dou ni mo naranai koto wa takusan aru.
- There are many things that even effort won't change.
選挙 なんて行 ってもどうにもならない。- Senkyo nante itte mo dou ni mo naranai.
- Even if you hold an election, it won't make a difference.
洪水 の中 ではどれだけ泳 ぎが得意 な人 でもどうにもならない。- Kouzui no naka de wa dore dake oyogi ga tokui na hito de mo dou ni mo naranai.
- In a flood, no matter how good someone is at swimming, it won't help.
自分 が好 きでも、相手 が自分 に好意 を持 っていなければどうにもならない。- Jibun ga suki de mo, aite ga jibun ni koui o motte inakereba dou ni mo naranai.
- Even if you like someone, it won't matter if they don't feel the same way about you.
Deep Dive
〜てもどうにもならない is often used to emphasize that no matter what is done, a certain irreversible or unsolvable situation cannot be changed. This expression carries a tone of resignation and helplessness, highlighting the futility of the action.
Real-Life Scenarios
- This expression is used when expressing helplessness in the face of unchangeable situations, such as life setbacks, illness, or uncontrollable natural disasters.
Summary
〜てもどうにもならない is an expression used to convey that even if something is done, it won't make a difference. It is often used to emphasize situations where change is impossible, reflecting a sense of acceptance and resignation. Mastering this expression will enhance the accuracy and expressiveness of your Japanese communication.