Translation guide
Expresses that something is the most important consideration or priority, often used to emphasize a core value, principle, or requirement.
The speaker wants to stress that one thing is more important than any other consideration.
A very common and natural way to say 'above all else' or 'more than anything'. It can be used in both spoken and written Japanese.
健康は何よりも大切です。
Health is important above all else.
何よりも、家族の安全が第一だ。
Above all else, family safety comes first.
Used to state a guiding principle or deeply held belief that overrides other concerns.
Adds 'まず' (first) to emphasize that this is the very first priority. Stronger than 何よりも alone.
何よりもまず、正直であることが大切だ。
Above all else, it is important to be honest.
Both mean 'above all', but 何よりも is slightly more emphatic and common in formal or written contexts. 何より is more casual and often used in spoken Japanese. The difference is subtle, and they are often interchangeable.
Do not translate 'above all else' word-for-word as 'すべての上に' or similar. These sound unnatural in Japanese. Use the phrases provided instead.
何よりも、親切でありなさい。
Above all else, be kind.
彼女は何よりも正直を重んじる。
She values honesty above all else.
A slightly shorter, more casual version of 何よりも. Often used in conversation.
何より、君に会えて嬉しい。
Above all else, I'm happy to see you.
Literally 'even putting aside everything else', this phrase strongly emphasizes that something takes precedence over all other things. Slightly more formal/literary.
何をおいても、この仕事を終わらせなければならない。
Above all else, I must finish this work.
Means 'especially' or 'above all', often used to single out one thing among others. More common in written or formal contexts.
環境問題は、とりわけ重要な課題だ。
Environmental issues are, above all else, an important challenge.
Means 'firstly' or 'first and foremost'. Often used when listing priorities or principles.
第一に、安全を確保してください。
Above all else, please ensure safety.