なくして
without ~; unless ~; if not for ~
N1
Meaning
without ~; unless ~; if not for ~
Formation
Formal
Noun ＋ なくして
※ Commonly used with abstract nouns (努力・協力・理解・犠牲 など)
Explanation
〜なくして is used to say that something cannot be achieved unless a certain condition exists.
It emphasizes that the noun before なくして is absolutely essential.
Without it, the result will not happen.
This grammar strongly expresses necessity and often appears in:
speeches
essays
formal writing
evaluations
logical or moral statements
The tone is serious, emphatic, and formal.
Easy way to understand
Think of it as:
“Without X, Y is impossible.”
or
“X is indispensable for Y.”
Usage Notes
✔ Expresses absolute necessity
✔ Stronger than ～なければならない
✔ Common with abstract, important concepts
✔ Used in formal / written contexts
❌ Rare in casual conversation
❌ Not used with concrete, everyday actions
❌ Sounds unnatural in light or emotional speech