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ないわけにはいかない・ざるを得ない・ねばならない: the difference

Meaning

Can't not, No way to avoid

Past papers

Tested once in past papers

Example

訳わけあって、白髪しらがを染そめないわけにはいかないんです。

For certain reasons, I can't leave my gray hair undyed.

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.

Meaning

Must, Have to, Should

Past papers

Not yet

Example

家賃やちんを月末げつまつまでに払はらわねばならない。

I have to pay rent by the end of the month.

How to tell them apart

「ないわけにはいかない」: bound by social ties, morals or face; it would be wrong not to.

「ざるを得ない」: circumstances leave no other choice, so you do it against your will; written.

「ねばならない」: a formal written 'must'; duty and rules.

「なければならない」: the everyday, objective 'must'.

All about ないわけにはいかない ›All about ざるを得ない ›All about ねばならない ›