Translation guide
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems surprising after what was just said. In Japanese, this is expressed with conjunctions or sentence-ending patterns that mean 'even so', 'despite that', or 'be that as it may'.
To say that something is true or happens despite what was just mentioned.
The most common and neutral way to say 'nonetheless' or 'even so'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
雨が降っていた。それでも、彼は出かけた。
It was raining. Nonetheless, he went out.
彼はあまり勉強しなかった。それでも、試験に合格した。
He didn't study much. Nonetheless, he passed the exam.
Formal and often used in writing. Means 'in spite of that' or 'nevertheless'. Can follow a noun or a clause.
Similar to 'nonetheless' but often carries a nuance of surprise or frustration. More common in spoken Japanese.
Used to acknowledge a point but then counter it. Similar to 'that said' or 'having said that'. Common in both speech and writing.
それでも is the everyday choice for 'nonetheless'. にもかかわらず is more formal and often appears in written Japanese or formal speeches. In casual conversation, それでも is preferred.
彼は忙しい。それでも、毎日運動している。
He's busy. Nonetheless, he exercises every day.
悪天候にもかかわらず、イベントは開催された。
Despite the bad weather, the event was held.
Do not try to translate 'nonetheless' word-for-word into Japanese. There is no single adverb that works in all cases. Use the conjunctions listed above depending on the context and formality.
危険だったが、それでもやった。
It was dangerous, but I did it nonetheless.
彼女は疲れていた。それでも、レポートを仕上げた。
She was tired; nonetheless, she finished the report.
彼は病気だった。にもかかわらず、会議に出席した。
He was sick. Nonetheless, he attended the meeting.
多くの困難があった。にもかかわらず、プロジェクトは成功した。
There were many difficulties. Nonetheless, the project succeeded.
彼は約束した。それなのに、来なかった。
He promised. Nonetheless, he didn't come.
He's excellent. Nonetheless, he lacks experience.
A more emphatic and formal version of にもかかわらず. Often used in formal speeches or writing.
反対が多かった。それにもかかわらず、計画は実行された。
There was a lot of opposition. Nonetheless, the plan was carried out.