Translation guide
A formal phrase used to acknowledge a point while shifting focus or introducing a contrasting idea. In Japanese, this is expressed through various conjunctions and set phrases that concede a previous statement before moving on.
The speaker acknowledges what was just said but wants to move the conversation forward or introduce a contrasting idea.
A common, neutral way to say 'be that as it may' or 'anyway'. It literally means 'that aside', and is used to change the subject after briefly acknowledging the previous point.
それはそうと、次の議題に移りましょう。
Be that as it may, let's move on to the next topic.
A concise, slightly formal phrase meaning 'anyhow' or 'be that as it may'. It concedes the previous point and introduces a new one.
Means 'in any case' or 'be that as it may'. It acknowledges the situation but emphasizes that the following point holds regardless.
いずれにせよ、我々は前進しなければならない。
Be that as it may, we must move forward.
Literally 'that as that', this phrase sets aside the previous topic and introduces a new one. It is slightly more explicit than それはそうと.
それはそれとして、本題に入ろう。
Be that as it may, let's get to the main point.
The English phrase 'be that as it may' is quite formal and often used in debates or formal discussions. In Japanese, それはそうと and それはそれとして are neutral and can be used in both casual and formal settings. ともあれ and いずれにせよ are slightly more formal. 何はともあれ is more emphatic and can sound a bit old-fashioned or literary.
それはそうと、君の意見はどうなんだ？
Be that as it may, what's your opinion?
Do not attempt to translate 'be that as it may' word-for-word into Japanese. Phrases like それがそうであるかもしれないが are unnatural and not used. Use the set phrases provided instead.
それはそうと、我々はまだ決断を下さなければならない。
Be that as it may, we still need to make a decision.
ともあれ、やってみるべきだと思う。
Be that as it may, I think we should try.
ともあれ、結果は結果だ。
Be that as it may, the result is what it is.
A more emphatic version of ともあれ, meaning 'at any rate' or 'be that as it may'. It is often used to brush aside details and focus on the main issue.
何はともあれ、無事でよかった。
Be that as it may, I'm glad you're safe.