-지 않을 수 없다
A double negative expressing that the speaker cannot NOT do something — i.e., they inevitably must. The negative is negated, creating a strong affirmation.
Summary
Equivalent
Cannot help but... / Have no choice but to...
Also: -아/어야 하다 (Have to - more direct obligation) · -지 않을 수가 없다 (Slightly stronger emphatic form)
Example
Upon hearing that news, I couldn't help but cry.
그 소식을 듣고 울지 않을 수 없었어요.
Grammar rules
- Used to express that something is unavoidable or irresistible.
- The speaker acknowledges they would prefer not to but cannot avoid it.
Patterns
Verbs/Adj (Double Negation)
Present · Verb/Adj Stem + 지 않을 수 없다
Example sentences
Upon hearing that news, I couldn't help but cry.
그 소식을 듣고 울지 않을 수 없었어요.
When you see food this delicious, you can't help but eat it.
이렇게 맛있는 음식을 보면 먹지 않을 수 없지요.
Given the situation, I have no choice but to help.
상황이 이러니 도와주지 않을 수 없어요.
Conversation
A: Why did you agree to take on that task?
왜 그 일을 맡기로 했어요?
B: I couldn't help but accept the request.
부탁을 거절하지 않을 수 없었어요.
Practice
Fill in the blank
Express that something is unavoidable using double negation.
Irresistible offer.
Beautiful scenery.