許可・義務N2
〜ざるを得ない
cannot help but... / have no choice but to...
Structure
V-ない形 + ざるを得ない
Explanation
Expresses being forced by circumstances to do something. Attached to the nai-stem of verbs. する becomes せざるを得ない. The form comes from the literary negative auxiliary ず (attributive ざる) + を得ない.
Examples
上司の命令なので、従わざるを得ない。
Since it's my boss's order, I have no choice but to obey.
予算が足りないので、計画を変更せざるを得ない。
Since the budget is insufficient, we have to change the plan.
Note
Similar to 〜しかない, but more formal and emphasizing external pressure. Remember する becomes せざるを得ない.