仕方(しかた)ない

しかたない
expression
it can't be helped, unavoidable
See also: しかたがない (with が)
1. it can't be helped, there's nothing to be done
Expresses resignation or acceptance that a situation cannot be changed. Used when something undesirable has happened or is happening, but there is no practical way to fix it.
雨(あめ)だから仕方(しかた)ない。
It's raining, so there's nothing we can do about it.
電車(でんしゃ)が遅(おく)れるのは仕方(しかた)ない。
Train delays can't be helped.
失敗(しっぱい)したものは仕方(しかた)ないから、次(つぎ)を頑張(がんば)ろう。
What's done is done, so let's do our best next time.

Usage: One of the most commonly used expressions in Japanese, reflecting a cultural attitude of accepting what cannot be changed. Often used to console someone or to express one's own resignation.

Forms

Common patterns

  • ～ても仕方(しかた)ない (even if ~, it can't be helped)
  • ～のは仕方(しかた)ない (it can't be helped that ~)

Related Words

Synonym: しょうがない (casual)
general
Added 2026.2.16 19:57 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
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