Translation guide
Expresses that something must be done or avoided no matter what, even if it requires great sacrifice or risk. Japanese uses set phrases, adverbs, and conditional patterns rather than a single direct translation.
To say that an action is absolutely necessary regardless of the difficulties or sacrifices involved.
A very common adverb meaning 'no matter what' or 'by any means'. Used with verbs to express strong determination or inevitability.
To say that something must absolutely not happen, regardless of the effort or sacrifice required to prevent it.
The most common way to say 'absolutely not'. Used with negative verbs to express strong prohibition or determination to avoid.
絶対に諦めない。
I will not give up at all costs.
Used with negative verbs to mean 'no matter what, not...'. Emphasizes inability or refusal.
There is no single Japanese word that directly translates 'at all costs'. Using a literal phrase like '全てのコストで' would be unnatural. Instead, use the set phrases and patterns above depending on whether you are emphasizing necessity or prohibition.
どうしてもその仕事を終わらせなければならない。
I have to finish that job at all costs.
Literally 'whatever happens', this phrase strongly emphasizes determination to do something regardless of obstacles.
何が何でも明日までに提出します。
I will submit it by tomorrow at all costs.
A somewhat formal and emphatic phrase meaning 'by any means' or 'right or wrong'. Conveys strong resolve.
是が非でも成功させたい。
I want to make it succeed at all costs.
A conditional pattern meaning 'even if'. Used to express that something will be done regardless of extreme circumstances.
たとえ命を失っても、国を守る。
I will protect my country at all costs, even if I lose my life.
A formal, literary phrase meaning 'overcoming all difficulties'. Used in speeches or writing.
万難を排して計画を実行する。
We will carry out the plan at all costs.
どうしても彼に負けたくない。
I don't want to lose to him at all costs.
Literally 'no matter what happens, not...'. Strongly emphasizes that an action will not occur under any circumstances.
何があっても秘密は守る。
I will keep the secret at all costs.