Translation guide
Expresses that something must be done or achieved regardless of the sacrifices, difficulties, or consequences. In Japanese, this is conveyed through set phrases, adverbial expressions, and conditional patterns that emphasize unwavering determination or inevitability.
To say that something must be done no matter what hardships, losses, or efforts are involved.
Literally 'even if I/we pay any sacrifice'. A direct and common way to express 'at any cost' when emphasizing willingness to endure loss or hardship.
We must make this project succeed at any cost.
A versatile adverbial phrase meaning 'by any means' or 'no matter what'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese to express strong determination.
I will finish this work by tomorrow at any cost.
An emphatic expression meaning 'by fair means or foul' or 'absolutely'. Conveys a strong, sometimes stubborn determination. Slightly more formal or literary.
Get that contract at any cost.
A formal, literary phrase meaning 'overcoming all difficulties'. Often used in speeches or written declarations.
I am determined to achieve the goal at any cost.
To emphasize that an action will be taken even if it leads to negative outcomes or danger.
A common conditional pattern meaning 'no matter what happens'. Natural in both conversation and writing.
I will protect you at any cost.
Literally 'even if I pay any price'. Similar to どんな犠牲を払っても but with a nuance of paying a price or penalty, not just sacrifice.
Literally 'even if I risk my life'. Used for extreme situations where one is willing to die. Dramatic and not for everyday use.
I will protect this secret at any cost.
To convey that all possible methods, even extreme ones, will be used to achieve a goal.
何としても is a general-purpose expression for strong determination, while どんな犠牲を払っても explicitly mentions sacrifice. Use 何としても when the focus is on achieving a goal despite obstacles, and どんな犠牲を払っても when you want to emphasize the cost or loss involved.
I want to win at any cost. (focus on determination)
I will protect my family at any cost. (focus on sacrifice)
The English phrase 'at any cost' is idiomatic. A literal translation like どんなコストでも is unnatural. Use the set phrases provided instead.
I will reveal the truth at any cost.
I want to get a contract with that company at any cost.