1.
certainly, surely, definitely
Expresses strong certainty that something will happen.
必ず成功する。
I will definitely succeed.
Expressing determination
努力すれば必ず報われる。
If you make an effort, you will surely be rewarded.
必ず勝つ。
I will definitely win.
必ずしも正しいとは限らない。
It's not necessarily correct.
2.
without fail, always
Indicates that something happens every time without exception.
明日必ず来てください。
Please come tomorrow without fail.
Strong request
彼は必ず約束を守る。
He always keeps his promises.
Describing consistent behavior
出かける前に必ず戸締まりをする。
I always lock up before going out.
必ず連絡してね。
Make sure to contact me, okay?
朝必ず新聞を読む。
I always read the newspaper in the morning.
食事の前に必ず手を洗う。
I always wash my hands before meals.
必ず is an adverb expressing certainty or 'without exception.'
Position: Usually appears before the verb, often near the beginning of the clause.
Modifies: Verbs (both actions and states)
[Register: Neutral]
Similar adverbs:
- 必ず vs. きっと: Both express certainty. 必ず emphasizes 'without fail' (100% certainty); きっと expresses confident expectation (high probability but not absolute).
- 必ず vs. 絶対(に): 絶対に is more emphatic and casual; 必ず is more neutral.
- 必ず vs. いつも: いつも simply means 'always'; 必ず adds emphasis on 'without exception.'
Note: Often used in instructions, promises, and warnings to emphasize importance.
Related Words
See also:
きっと