1.
unavoidable; inevitable; cannot be avoided
Something that cannot be escaped or prevented, no matter what measures are taken.
The negative potential form of 避ける (to avoid). While grammatically a verb form, it functions as a set expression equivalent to English "unavoidable" or "inevitable." Very common in both spoken and written Japanese for discussing things beyond one's control.
Common collocations
- 避けられない問題: unavoidable problem
- 避けられない運命: inescapable fate
- 避けられない結果: inevitable result
- どうしても避けられない: absolutely unavoidable
Usage
Often used when acknowledging difficult realities or arguing that something must be addressed. The expression carries a tone of resignation or acceptance.