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.
Anyway / At any rate (returning to topic)
In any case / Regardless
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.
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.
Similar to とにかく but slightly more casual. Often used as 'anyway' in spoken Japanese.
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'.
At any rate, he probably won't come.
Casual equivalent of いずれにしても. Used in everyday conversation.
At any rate, it's already late.
Literary/formal. 'Be that as it may'. Less common in daily speech.
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.
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'.
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.
At any rate, let's go quickly.
At any rate, let's give it a try.
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.
At any rate, we should proceed with the plan.
ともかく、話を続けよう。
At any rate, let's continue the story.