When learning a new language like Japanese, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with various ways to express common words and phrases. One such word is “anyway,” which is often used to transition between topics or reinforce a point. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways of saying “anyway” in Japanese.
Table of Contents
The Formal Ways
In formal situations, it’s important to use respectful language and appropriate expressions. Here are a few formal ways to say “anyway” in Japanese:
1. とにかく (Tonikaku)
The word とにかく (Tonikaku) is a commonly used adverb that can be translated as “anyway” or “in any case” in English. It is often used to shift focus or suggest a change of topic. For example:
明日は雨の予報ですが、とにかくピクニックに行きましょう。
あすは あめ の よほう です が、とにかく ピクニック に いきましょう。
Although rain is predicted for tomorrow, let’s go on a picnic anyway.
2. ともかく (Tomokaku)
Another formal expression for “anyway” is ともかく (Tomokaku). This word is often used to indicate that the speaker wants to move on to the main point or conclusion. For instance:
彼女の態度は良くなかったですが、ともかくプロジェクトは成功しました。
かのじょ の たいど は よく なかった です が、ともかく プロジェクト は せいこう しました。
Her attitude wasn’t good, but anyway, the project was a success.
The Informal Ways
Informal language is suitable for casual conversations with friends, peers, or family members. Here are a couple of informal ways to say “anyway” in Japanese:
1. とにかく (Tonikaku)
Just like its formal counterpart, the adverb とにかく (Tonikaku) is frequently used in informal situations as well. It helps to shift topics or reinforce a point. For example:
今日、ゲームを買おうと思っていたんだけど、お金が足りなかった。とにかく、また次の機会にしよう。
きょう、ゲーム を かおう と おもっていた ん だけど、おかね が たりなかった。とにかく、また つぎ の きかい にしよう。
I was planning to buy a game today, but I didn’t have enough money. Anyway, let’s do it next time.
2. なんだかんだ (Nandakanda)
In informal conversations, なんだかんだ (Nandakanda) is a popular phrase meaning “anyway” or “one way or another.” It is commonly used among friends or when expressing a casual opinion. Here’s an example:
なんだかんだ言っても、彼女の知識は本当に広いよ。
なんだかんだ いっても、かのじょ の ちしき は ほんとうに ひろい よ。
Anyway, no matter what people say, her knowledge is really vast.
Tips and Additional Examples
Here are a few tips and additional examples that will help you further understand the usage of “anyway” in Japanese:
1. Context Matters
As with any expression in a foreign language, the context in which you use the word “anyway” is crucial. Pay attention to the topic being discussed, the formality of the situation, and the relationship between you and the person you’re speaking to.
2. Listen and Observe
One of the best ways to improve your Japanese language skills is by actively listening to native speakers and observing their usage of expressions such as “anyway.” Immersing yourself in the language and culture will help you gain a better understanding of when and how to use certain phrases.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
Don’t be afraid to practice using different words and expressions in everyday conversations. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in incorporating new expressions like “anyway” into your Japanese speaking and writing.
In conclusion, mastering the different ways to say “anyway” in Japanese, both formally and informally, is essential for effective communication. By incorporating these expressions into your language skills, you’ll be able to smoothly transition between topics and confidently express your thoughts and opinions in a warm and friendly manner.
