許可・義務N2
〜てばかりはいられない、〜てばかりもいられない
can't keep on just... / can't spend all one's time...
Structure
V-て形 + ばかりはいられない／ばかりもいられない
Explanation
Indicates that one cannot only do the first action and should consider other things or take action; often used for admonition or self-criticism (泣いてばかりはいられない).
Examples
失敗しても、落ち込んでばかりはいられない。
Even if I fail, I can't stay depressed forever.
これからは遊んでばかりもいられない。
From now on, I can't just keep playing.
Note
Similar to てはいられない, but emphasizes "not just doing one thing", with an encouraging, forward-looking tone.