Translation guide
A discourse marker used to return to the main point, to conclude, or to indicate that what follows is true regardless of what was just said. In Japanese, the equivalent expressions vary by nuance: some emphasize continuation despite circumstances, others signal a shift back to the topic.
The speaker wants to move the conversation back to the main topic after a digression or interruption.
The most common and versatile equivalent. Used to say 'anyway' or 'in any case' when you want to get back to the point.
とにかく、会議を始めましょう。
At any rate, let's start the meeting.
More formal/literary. Means 'be that as it may' or 'in any case'. Often used in writing or formal speech.
いずれにせよ、我々は計画を進めるべきだ。
At any rate, we should proceed with the plan.
Similar to とにかく but slightly more casual. Often used as 'anyway' in spoken Japanese.
ともかく、話を続けよう。
At any rate, let's continue the story.
The speaker wants to emphasize that a statement is true no matter what the situation is.
Common in both spoken and written Japanese. Means 'either way' or 'regardless'.
いずれにしても、彼は来ないだろう。
At any rate, he probably won't come.
Casual equivalent of いずれにしても. Used in everyday conversation.
どっちにしても、もう遅いよ。
At any rate, it's already late.
Literary/formal. 'Be that as it may'. Less common in daily speech.
何にせよ、結果は同じだ。
At any rate, the result is the same.
The speaker wants to make a minimal or fallback statement, often after a negative or uncertain situation.
Means 'anyhow' or 'at any rate'. Often used when you want to say something positive despite difficulties.
ともあれ、無事でよかった。
At any rate, I'm glad you're safe.
Similar to いずれにしても but slightly more emphatic. 'No matter what'.
いずれにしろ、やるしかない。
At any rate, we have no choice but to do it.
とにかく is the most common and neutral 'anyway'. ともかく is slightly more casual and often used in spoken Japanese. いずれにせよ is more formal and emphasizes 'regardless of which is true'. All can be used to return to the main point, but いずれにせよ is less common in casual chat.
とにかく、早く行こう。
At any rate, let's go quickly.
ともかく、やってみよう。
At any rate, let's give it a try.
いずれにせよ、準備は必要だ。
At any rate, preparation is necessary.
There is no direct word-for-word translation of 'at any rate'. Using どんな率でも (don-na ritsu demo) would be nonsensical. Always use the set phrases above.