Translation guide
A guide to expressing 'anyway' in Japanese, covering discourse functions like returning to a topic, dismissing a concern, concluding, and correcting oneself.
Anyway, let's go.
Anyway, what were we talking about?
To resume a previous topic after a digression or interruption.
The most common and versatile way to say 'anyway' when returning to a topic. Can also mean 'in any case'.
Anyway, let's get back to the topic.
Literary or formal 'anyway', often used in writing. Implies 'be that as it may'.
To indicate that something is not important or to dismiss a previous statement.
To wrap up a conversation or story.
To rephrase or clarify what you just said.
Used to rephrase or correct oneself, like 'I mean' or 'or rather'.
とにかく means 'anyway' in the sense of 'regardless' or 'in any case', while とりあえず means 'for now' or 'first of all'. Don't confuse them.
Anyway, let's give it a try.
Literally 'putting that aside', used to smoothly transition back to the main point. Slightly more formal.
Anyway, let's get to the main topic.
ともあれ、会議を続けます。
Anyway, let's continue the meeting.
Works here too, meaning 'in any case' or 'regardless'.
Anyway, don't worry about it.
Implies 'anyway' with a nuance of resignation or inevitability. Often used when something is bound to happen or doesn't matter.
Can sound negative or dismissive, so use with care.
Anyway, nobody's watching, so it's fine.
Formal expression meaning 'in any case' or 'be that as it may'.
Anyway, the result is the same.
Anyway, that's how it is.
A casual interjection meaning 'well' or 'anyway', often used to conclude or change the subject.
Anyway, that's about it.
Used to move on or conclude, similar to 'well then' or 'anyway'.
Anyway, see you tomorrow.
He's a doctor—anyway, a medical researcher.
Casual 'no' used to correct oneself, like 'I mean' or 'anyway'.
Yesterday—anyway, maybe it was the day before.
For now, I'll have a beer.
While とにかく is versatile, using it too often can sound repetitive. Vary your expressions based on context.