不可

• Reading: ふか
• Romaji: fuka
• Kanji breakdown: 不 (fu) — not, un-; 可 (ka) — possible, acceptable
• Pronunciation: /ɸɯ.ka/

Meaning

Impossible; unacceptable; not allowed. Indicates something cannot or should not be done.

A na-adjective, no-adjective, noun, and noun suffix. Most commonly appears as a suffix in compound words: 不可能 (impossible), 不可欠 (indispensable), 不可解 (incomprehensible). On its own, used in formal or academic settings, especially as a grade (不可 = fail). The pattern ～は不可 means '~ is not permitted.'

Examples

1. この試験で不可を取ったら卒業できない。 If I get a failing grade on this exam, I can't graduate.
2. 許可なく入ることは不可です。 Entering without permission is not allowed.
3. 彼の協力なしでは計画の実行は不可だ。 Without his cooperation, carrying out the plan is impossible.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, rules, regulations

Tone: authoritative

Origin & History

Compound of 不 (fu, not) and 可 (ka, possible/acceptable). Literally 'not possible' or 'not acceptable.' The kanji 可 originally depicted a mouth giving approval.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal