〜ずじまい
Formation
Meaning
Used to express that someone ended up not doing something they had intended or planned to do, often carrying a nuance of regret or disappointment.
Note
Refers to a situation where something that was intended or expected to happen ended up not occurring. It often carries a nuance of regret, disappointment, or a sense of a missed opportunity. Commonly used with 'kekkyoku' (eventually) or 'owaru' (to end).
Examples
留学したかったが、結局行かずじまいだった。
I wanted to study abroad, but I ended up not going in the end.
彼女に本当の気持ちを言おうと思ったが、言わずじまいに終わった。
I thought about telling her my true feelings, but I ended up not saying anything.
買おうと思っていた本があったが、忙しくて買かずじまいになった。
There was a book I intended to buy, but I was busy and ended up not buying it.
ずっと会いたいと思っていた先生に会えずじまいで、帰国してしまった。
I had always wanted to see my teacher/professor, but I went back to my country without being able to see them.
片付けをしようと思ったが、面倒になってせずじまいだった。
I thought about cleaning up, but it became too much trouble and I ended up not doing it.
新しいカメラを買ったが、一度も使わずじまいだ。
I bought a new camera, but I've ended up not using it even once.