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ずにはすまない・ざるを得ない: the difference

Meaning

Won't get away without, Won't get off without, Have to, Have no choice but to, Can’t not

Past papers

Not yet

Example

重要じゅうような会議かいぎだから、間まに合あわないではすまない。

It's an important meeting, so I won't get away without making it on time.

Meaning

Can't help doing, Have no choice but

Past papers

Tested 3 times in past papers

Example

サプライズのプレゼントに、驚おどろかざるを得えなかった。

I couldn't help but be surprised at the surprise present.

How to tell them apart

「〜ずにはすまない」: social duty or responsibility; things can't be settled unless you do it (apologize, compensate, be punished).

「〜ずにはいられない」: an urge you can't hold back (laughing, crying).

「〜ざるを得ない」: circumstances leave no other choice; you have to do it against your will, e.g. have to resign.

All about ずにはすまない ›All about ざるを得ない ›