N4 · Structured courses

～hazu ga Nai: Cannot Be

Learn hazu ga nai for strong negative inference — "it cannot be that..." This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn hazu ga nai for strong negative inference — "it cannot be that..."
  • Form and connection: [Plain form] はずがない
  • Nuance in real use: はずがない is one of the most forceful negations in Japanese — it doesn't just deny a fact, it denies the very possibility. In arguments or self-defense, this expression lands with weight.

Form and connection

[Plain form] はずがない

Core Explanation

Learn hazu ga nai for strong negative inference — "it cannot be that..."

Cultural Note

はずがない is one of the most forceful negations in Japanese — it doesn't just deny a fact, it denies the very possibility. In arguments or self-defense, this expression lands with weight.

Practical examples

He cannot be lying.
That can't possibly be true.
That person couldn't possibly forget.

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[Plain form] はずがない
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerHe cannot be lying.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answerあの人ひとが忘わすれるはずがない。 ([Plain form] はずがない)

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