JLPT N2 grammar

〜てからでないとmeaning and usage

Meaning

Until A is done, B doesn't occur/can't be done.

How to form it

  • verb (te-form)からでないとclause
  • verb (te-form)からでなければclause

How it is used

A has to be done first; until it is, B can't happen or won't be done. The second half is usually negative or difficult, such as 「〜できない」. 「〜てからでなければ」 means the same and sounds slightly more formal.

Examples

  1. サイトの条件に同意してからでないと、入れません。

    You cannot enter until you agree to the site conditions.

  2. 先生に聞いてからでないと、お答えできません。

    I can't give you an answer until I've asked the teacher.

  3. 実際に見てからでないと、買うかどうか決められない。

    I can't decide whether to buy it until I've seen it for myself.