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Structure

Core pattern

X也X不……，Y也Y不……

Seen in examples

修也修不好，換也換不起

勸也勸不動，拉也拉不走

說也說不清，寫也寫不完

進也進不去，退也退不了

...也...不...，...也...不... is a paired negative-distributive pattern emphasizing that neither condition/path works.

Double exclusion frame - two alternatives both negated

Strong refusal/impossibility tone - categorical denial

Rhetorical symmetry - balanced repetition enhances force

See examples below for varied real-world usage.

Keep both halves parallel

- Structural symmetry is essential.

Use when both options truly fail/are rejected

- Avoid false dichotomy.

Tone can be emphatic/absolute

- Consider interpersonal impact.

這事說也說不清，寫也寫不完。

This matter cannot be explained clearly nor fully written.

他勸也勸不動，拉也拉不走。

He cannot be persuaded nor pulled away.

現在進也進不去，退也退不了。

Now we can neither move forward nor retreat.

這機器修也修不好，換也換不起。

This machine can neither be fixed well nor affordably replaced.

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Practice ...也...不...，...也...不... and other grammar patterns with manga, dramas, and more.