1.
anyway; at any rate; in any case; first of all
Used to set aside various concerns or details and focus on what matters most, or to move forward regardless of the circumstances. Often introduces the most important point or action.
何はともあれ、無事でよかった。
At any rate, I'm glad you're safe.
何はともあれ、まず乾杯しよう。
Anyway, let's have a toast first.
問題はいろいろあるが、何はともあれ試験に合格できたのだから喜ぶべきだ。
There are various problems, but in any case, I passed the exam, so I should be happy.
An idiomatic expression meaning "setting everything else aside." Literally 何は (as for whatever) + ともあれ (be that as it may). Used to redirect attention to what the speaker considers the most important point, often after acknowledging complications.
USAGE:
Typically appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause. It has a slightly formal, composed tone and is common in both spoken and written Japanese. Often introduces a positive conclusion after discussing difficulties.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 何はともあれ、まず〜 — first of all, let's...
- 何はともあれ、無事で〜 — at any rate, safely...
- 何はともあれ、よかった — anyway, I'm glad
SIMILAR WORDS:
- とにかく — anyway, anyhow; more casual, broader usage
- いずれにせよ — in any case; more formal, often used in writing
- ともかく — at any rate; similar to とにかく, slightly more formal
- とりあえず — for now, for the time being; focuses on immediacy rather than prioritization