いけません

Alternative writings: 行けません
Frequency:

1An expression meaning that something is wrong or not good; similar to 'that's not acceptable' or 'that's bad.'

ExpressionUsually Kana

Examples

そんなことを他人の前で言うのは行けませんよ。

You mustn't say such things in front of others.

約束を破るのは行けません。

Breaking a promise is not acceptable.

2Used to indicate that something is hopeless or beyond help — 'it's past hope' or 'no use.'

ExpressionUsually Kana

Examples

この状況ではもう行けませんね、別の方法を考えましょう。

In this situation we're past hope; let's consider another approach.

大幅な損傷で修理は行けませんと言われた。

I was told the damage is so severe it's beyond repair.

3A polite prohibition meaning 'must not do' or 'you shouldn't do that.'

ExpressionUsually Kana

Examples

ここで遊んでは行けません。

You must not play here.

試験中にカンニングをしてはいけません、と注意されたが行けませんという強い言い方だった。

I was warned that cheating during the exam is forbidden; '行けません' was used firmly.

4The negative of 'to go' — 'cannot go' (unable to attend or go somewhere).

Expression

Examples

申し訳ないですが、明日の会議には行けません。

I'm sorry, but I can't attend tomorrow's meeting.

台風で電車が止まり、予定の場所に行けませんでした。

The trains stopped because of the typhoon and I couldn't get to the place as planned.