N1 Integrated Dialogue Lesson 3
Mastering the usage of the N1 grammar point ～を余儀なくされる (to be forced to do/undergo), used to describe unavoidable, often negative, circumstances.
The Unavoidable Situation
In professional or formal writing, we often need to describe situations where someone had no choice but to take a specific action due to external circumstances. This is not just a simple 'I had to do it,' but rather a formal expression of being compelled by fate or necessity.
Understanding ～を余儀なくされる
The pattern ～を余儀なくされる (o yogi naku sareru) translates to 'to be forced to' or 'to be compelled to.' It is used when an event or situation forces a person or entity into an undesirable action.
Watch out
Examples in Context
Observe how this structure conveys a sense of unavoidable external pressure.
悪天候のため、試合の中止を余儀なくされた。
Due to bad weather, we were forced to cancel the match.
社長は健康上の理由で辞任を余儀なくされた。
The president was forced to resign for health reasons.
Which of these is the correct way to complete the sentence: 'The company was forced to reduce staff'?
- ✓ 会社は人員削減を余儀なくされた
- 会社は人員削減を余儀なくした
- 会社は人員削減を余儀なくさせる
- 会社は人員削減を余儀なくする
The passive form '余儀なくされる' is required to express being forced by circumstances.
Nuance and Register
This grammar point is highly formal and is typically found in news reports, business documents, or historical accounts.
Formal vs Casual
～を余儀なくされる
Formal, objective, passive
撤退を余儀なくされた
～せざるを得ない
Subjective, internal pressure
撤退せざるを得ない
In what context is '～を余儀なくされる' most appropriate?
- A casual text to a friend
- ✓ A formal news article about a company bankruptcy
- A diary entry about your weekend plans
- A conversation with a child
This is a formal, objective expression used in reporting or professional writing.
Deep Dive: The Origin
Understanding the etymology helps remember the meaning.
Lesson Summary
The pattern ～を余儀なくされる is a vital N1 tool for expressing that an action was unavoidable due to external circumstances. It is strictly for negative, formal contexts.