何(なに)はともあれ

なにわともあれ

adverb, expression

anyway; at any rate; first of all

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(なに)はともあれ、無事(ぶじ)でよかった。

At any rate, I'm glad you're safe.

何(なに)はともあれ、まず乾杯(かんぱい)しよう。

Anyway, let's have a toast first.

問題(もんだい)はいろいろあるが、何(なに)はともあれ試験(しけん)に合格(ごうかく)できたのだから喜(よろこ)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(なに)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(なに)はともあれ、まず〜 — first of all, let's...
何(なに)はともあれ、無事(ぶじ)で〜 — at any rate, safely...
何(なに)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

Related Words

Compare: とにかく (anyway, anyhow)

Compare: いずれにせよ (in any case)

Compare: ともかく (at any rate)

Compare: とりあえず (for now, for the time being)

general

Added 2026.3.26 14:18 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01

19500/19569_naniwatomoare