Translation guide
The English word 'anyhow' is used in several ways: to mean 'in any case' or 'anyway', to indicate doing something carelessly, or to connect ideas in a vague manner. This guide helps learners choose the most natural Japanese expressions for each use.
Used to change the subject, return to a previous topic, or emphasize that something is true regardless of other factors.
The most common and versatile equivalent. Used to mean 'anyway', 'in any case', or 'no matter what'.
とにかく、始めましょう。
Anyhow, let's get started.
とにかく、彼は来ると思う。
Anyhow, I think he'll come.
More formal than とにかく. Means 'in any case' or 'be that as it may'.
いずれにせよ、決断は明日だ。
Anyhow, the decision is tomorrow.
Similar to とにかく but slightly more casual. Often used in spoken Japanese.
ともかく、やってみよう。
Anyhow, let's give it a try.
Describes doing something without care, in a messy or random manner.
Means doing something half-heartedly or carelessly. Often used with verbs like やる (do) or 済ませる (finish).
彼は仕事をいい加減にやった。
He did the job anyhow.
Implies rough or sloppy handling. Stronger than いい加減に.
彼は道具をぞんざいに扱った。
He handled the tools anyhow.
Can mean 'appropriately' but often implies doing something casually or without much thought, similar to 'anyhow' in a careless sense.
適当に片付けておいて。
Just tidy up anyhow.
Describes things being scattered or arranged without order.
Means 'in a mess' or 'chaotically'. Used for physical disorder or actions done without plan.
本がめちゃくちゃに積まれている。
The books are piled up anyhow.
Suggests randomness or lack of logic. Often used for speaking or acting without basis.
彼はでたらめに答えた。
He answered anyhow.
Do not translate 'anyhow' word-for-word. The Japanese expressions depend heavily on context. Using とにかく when you mean 'carelessly' will sound unnatural.
Both mean 'anyway', but とにかく is more common and neutral. ともかく is slightly more casual and often used in spoken Japanese. In formal writing, prefer いずれにせよ.