Translation guide
Expresses that something will happen or is true regardless of whether the outcome is good or bad. Often used to accept a situation or to indicate that a decision has been made and the consequences will be faced.
To say that something is true or will happen no matter if the result is good or bad.
The most direct and common equivalent. Used to acknowledge that something has both positive and negative aspects, or that an outcome is uncertain but will be accepted.
良くも悪くも、これが現実だ。
For better or worse, this is reality.
良くも悪くも、彼の影響は大きい。
For better or worse, his influence is significant.
Specifically used in wedding vows to promise commitment through good and bad times.
Standard phrase in Japanese wedding vows, meaning 'in sickness and in health'. Often combined with other phrases to convey 'for better or worse'.
病める時も健やかなる時も、この人を愛し続けることを誓います。
I vow to love this person for better or worse, in sickness and in health.
Both mean 'for better or worse', but 良くも悪くも is more common in everyday speech and writing. 善かれ悪しかれ sounds more formal or literary. In casual conversation, 良くも悪くも is preferred.
良くも悪くも、彼は正直すぎる。
For better or worse, he is too honest.
Do not translate 'for better or worse' word-for-word as 「より良いか悪いかのために」. This is unnatural and not idiomatic in Japanese. Use the phrases provided.
A slightly more literary or formal expression with the same meaning. Less common in casual speech.
善かれ悪しかれ、結果はもう決まっている。
For better or worse, the outcome is already decided.
Literally 'whether right or wrong', this phrase emphasizes determination to proceed regardless of consequences. Stronger than 'for better or worse' and often used when someone is resolved to do something.
是が非でも、この計画を実行する。
For better or worse, I will carry out this plan.
Direct translation of 'for better or worse' used in some modern or Christian-style wedding vows. Less traditional but easily understood.
良き時も悪き時も、共に歩むことを誓います。
I vow to walk together for better or worse.