1.
no matter how much ~
Expresses that despite any amount of effort or quantity, the result remains the same.
いくら〜ても is a grammar pattern expressing that regardless of the degree or amount, the result does not change. It conveys a sense of futility or emphasis.
Common patterns
- いくら + verb (て-form) + も: いくら食べても (no matter how much I eat)
- いくら + i-adjective (-くても): いくら高くても (no matter how expensive)
- いくら + na-adjective / noun (でも): いくら静かでも (no matter how quiet)
Usage
The main clause typically states a negative or unexpected outcome: いくら説明しても分からない (no matter how much I explain, they don't understand).
いくら can also be used alone to mean "how much" (as a question word) or "some amount."