What it means
かいもなく expresses that an effort, preparation, or hardship produced no desired result. It is used when the outcome is disappointing or contrary to what was hoped for, and can be translated as “despite ...” or “even though ... .” It commonly follows a past-tense verb or a noun followed by の. The expression often implies that the preceding effort was substantial or worthwhile, making the unsuccessful result especially frustrating.
Usage note
かいもなく is often written as 甲斐もなく and should not be confused with 甲斐あって, which indicates that an effort produced a good result. The construction generally introduces an unfavorable outcome, rather than a neutral contrast.
How to use it
長年の努力のかいもなく、計画は中止されました。
Despite years of effort, the plan was canceled.
懸命に勉強したかいもなく、試験に落ちました。
Even though I studied hard, I failed the exam.
長年の努力のかいもなく、計画は中止された。
Despite years of effort, the plan was canceled.
懸命に勉強したかいもなく、試験に落ちた。
Even though I studied hard, I failed the exam.
Example sentences
何度も資料を見直した甲斐もなく、会議では重要な数字を一つ誤って報告してしまった。
Even though I had reviewed the materials many times, I ended up reporting one important figure incorrectly at the meeting.
入念に準備した甲斐もなく、企画は審査で不採用となった。