ないものか
Isn’t there any way to ~? / I strongly wish ~ were possible (rhetorical question) Used to express a strong desire, frustration, or appeal, asking whether something can be done, often when it seems difficult.
N1
Meaning
Isn’t there any way to ~? / I strongly wish ~ were possible (rhetorical question) Used to express a strong desire, frustration, or appeal, asking whether something can be done, often when it seems difficult.
Formation
Verb (dictionary form) + ないものか
Verb (potential form) + ないものか
Explanation
ないものか is a formal, rhetorical expression used when the speaker earnestly wants something to happen and wonders if there is any possible way, even if the chances are low.
The core idea is:
“Is there really no way to do this?”
Key nuance:
Strong desire or appeal
Often carries:
frustration
urgency
hope against difficulty
The speaker is not expecting a simple yes/no answer
Tone is:
serious
formal
emotionally restrained
Common in:
proposals
editorials
problem statements
JLPT N1 reading passages
This grammar expresses active hope, not resignation.