Gaining proficiency in a foreign language requires a deep understanding of its vocabulary, including essential words like “despite.” If you’re looking to express the concept of “despite” in the Japanese language, this guide aims to provide you with the formal and informal ways to do so. We’ll also offer regional variations if they exist. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll have a firm grasp on how to use “despite” in Japanese conversation. Let’s delve into the different ways to convey this concept below:
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Formal Ways to Say “Despite” in Japanese
When using a more formal tone, Japanese offers several different expressions to convey “despite.” As the grammatical structure differs from English, it’s important to understand how to use these expressions appropriately. Here is a list of formal phrases you can use:
- 1. にもかかわらず (Nimo kakawarazu)
This expression is commonly used in formal settings and translates directly to “despite” or “in spite of.” It is extremely versatile and can be used both in written and spoken Japanese. Let’s take a look at some examples:
例: 彼は雨にもかかわらず、ピクニックに行った。
Translation: Despite the rain, he went on a picnic.例: 進捗が遅くとも、締切りに間に合わせなければならない。
Translation: Despite the slow progress, we must meet the deadline.
2. にも関わらず (Nimo kakawarazu)
Similar to the previous expression, this phrase is used to convey “despite” or “in spite of” in formal contexts. It can replace “にもかかわらず” without changing the meaning. Here are some examples:
例: 彼女は忙しいにも関わらず、手伝ってくれた。
Translation: Despite being busy, she helped me.例: 高額なにも関わらず、その商品は人気がある。
Translation: Despite the high price, that product is popular.
Informal Ways to Say “Despite” in Japanese
When conversing in informal settings, Japanese offers alternative expressions to convey the concept of “despite.” These expressions allow for a more natural flow and are suitable for casual conversations among friends or colleagues. Let’s explore some informal phrases you can use:
- 1. でも (Demo)
This versatile expression can be used both in formal and informal contexts to mean “but” or “however.” When used in informal discussions, it can also convey the sense of “despite.” Here are a few examples:
例：難しい試験だったけど、合格した。
Translation: It was a difficult exam, but I passed it despite that.例: 昨日は寒かったけど、遊びに行った。
Translation: Despite the cold weather yesterday, I went out to have fun.
2. 〜なのに (Nanoni)
This informal expression has a similar meaning to “でも” and can be used to indicate “despite” in a more conversational manner. It is often added at the end of a sentence. Examples below demonstrate the usage of this expression:
例: 運動したのに疲れていない。
Translation: Despite exercising, I’m not tired.例: 一生懸命勉強したのに成績が悪かった。
Translation: Despite studying hard, my grades were poor.
Regional Variations of “Despite” in Japanese
While Japanese has regional variations, they typically don’t affect the way “despite” is expressed. However, certain dialects may utilize unique phrases or particles to convey this concept. Below, we’ll briefly mention a couple of regional variations:
- 1. Kansai Dialect:
The Kansai dialect, spoken in the western regions of Japan (including Osaka and Kyoto), utilizes the phrase “んにもかかわらへん (N ni mo kakawarahen)” to convey “despite.” This phrase is equivalent to “にも関わらず” or “にもかかわらず” in standard Japanese. - 2. Kyushu Dialect:
The Kyushu dialect, spoken in the southern island of Kyushu, has its own variation for “despite.” It uses the phrase “たり (Tari)” or “たる (Taru)” at the end of a sentence. This expression implies “yet,” “still,” or “in spite of” in English.
Conclusion
Now that you understand how to say “despite” in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can confidently incorporate this word into your conversations. Remember, in formal contexts, phrases like “にもかかわらず” or “にも関わらず” are commonly used, while informal conversations often utilize “でも” or “〜なのに.” Keep practicing and exposing yourself to Japanese media to further enhance your language skills. The beauty of language lies in its nuances, and expressing “despite” in Japanese opens up new layers of understanding.
