1.
inevitably; willy-nilly; whether one likes it or not
Describes something that happens regardless of one's wishes or consent. Indicates that there is no choice in the matter—it will happen whether you want it to or not.
否応なく決断を迫られた。
I was forced to make a decision whether I liked it or not.
グローバル化で否応なく英語が必要になった。
With globalization, English became inevitably necessary.
時代の流れに否応なく巻き込まれる。
One gets swept up in the currents of the times, like it or not.
FORMATION:
否 (no, unwilling) + 応 (yes, consent) + なく (without)
Literally: "without yes or no" → regardless of one's wishes
VARIANTS:
- 否応なしに - Same meaning
- 否応なく - Standard form
- 有無を言わさず - Without allowing objection (similar nuance)
USAGE:
否応なく typically precedes verbs describing being forced into a situation or having to accept something:
- 否応なく巻き込まれる (to be inevitably drawn in)
- 否応なく従う (to comply whether one likes it or not)
- 否応なく変わる (to change inevitably)
NUANCE:
Emphasizes the lack of choice—external circumstances or forces leave no room for refusal. Often used for societal changes, obligations, or situations beyond one's control.
Related Words
Synonym:
必然に (inevitably)