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Japanese grammar 〜なくてもいい: indicates that an action or state is not necessary. Pattern and examples.

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〜なくてもいい | indicates that an action or state is not necessary

Key takeaways

Grammar pattern 〜なくてもいい (〜なくてもいい): indicates that an action or state is not necessary.

See example sentences below.

〜なくてもいい at a glance

At a glance

〜なくてもいい

~nakutemo ii

Obligation

Expression: 〜なくてもいい
Reading: ~nakutemo ii
Natural meaning: indicates that an action or state is not necessary
Typical use: Obligation

Core meaning of 〜なくてもいい

Core meaning

indicates that an action or state is not necessary

Examples

Example 1

明日は休みですから、早く起きなくてもいいです。

Translation

Tomorrow is a day off, so I don't have to wake up early.

Example 2

この料理は辛くないですから、水を飲まなくてもいいですよ。

Translation

This dish isn't spicy, so you don't need to drink any water.

5 N4 Grammar Points for Obligation and Necessity

Complete Guide Starting with 〜なければなりません

5 N4 Grammar Points for Obligation and Necessity | Complete Guide Starting with 〜なければなりません

Compare 5 Japanese grammar points related to 'obligation and necessity' frequently used in JLPT N4 and daily conversation. Master confusing expressions from '〜なければなりません' to '〜必要があります' all at once.

〜なくてもいい | indicates that an action or state is not necessary | Daily Nihongo