N2 · Structured courses

Ni Oyobanai: Need Not / Cannot Match

"No need to go that far" (humility) or "cannot match." 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: "No need to go that far" (humility) or "cannot match."
  • Form and connection: [Verb辞书形/Nounの] に及およばない
  • Nuance in real use: に及ばない can be your humility ("I'm not worthy") or your reassurance ("Don't worry").

Form and connection

[Verb辞书形/Nounの] に及およばない

Core Explanation

"No need to go that far" (humility) or "cannot match."

Cultural Note

に及ばない can be your humility ("I'm not worthy") or your reassurance ("Don't worry").

Practical examples

There's no need to worry.
My Japanese can't match his.

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[Verb辞书形/Nounの] に及およばない
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerThere's no need to worry.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer私わたしの日本語にほんごは彼かれに及およばない。 ([Verb辞书形/Nounの] に及およばない)

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