1.
to the end; persistently
Without giving up; continuing firmly until a goal is achieved.
2.
strictly; only; merely
Used to emphasize limitation - that something is limited to a particular scope or purpose.
Writing
Can be written as 飽くまで, though hiragana is more common.
Common patterns
Sense 1 (persistent):
Sense 2 (limitation/qualifier):
- あくまで参考 (strictly for reference)
- あくまで私見ですが (this is just my opinion, but...)
- あくまで目安 (just a guideline)
- あくまで予定 (just a tentative plan)
Usage
In sense 2, often used to disclaim responsibility or soften a statement. Very common in business Japanese to hedge assertions.
Similar words
- どこまでも - to the end, everywhere
- 断じて - firmly, absolutely