Translation guide
The English phrase "no matter" is used to introduce a condition that does not affect the main statement. In Japanese, this is expressed through various grammatical patterns, most commonly using 〜ても, 〜でも, or question words with 〜ても/〜でも. The choice depends on what follows "no matter" (a noun, adjective, verb, or question word).
Expressing that something is true regardless of a variable (what, who, where, how much, etc.)
No matter what happens, I won't give up.
No matter who comes, the party will be fun.
No matter where I go, there are a lot of people.
Adds emphasis, similar to 'even if'. Often used with hypothetical or extreme situations.
No matter if it rains, I'll go. (Even if it rains, I'll go.)
Expressing that something is true regardless of the degree or manner
Used with adjectives or verbs to mean 'no matter how much'. いくら means 'how much', and the following 〜ても/でも indicates 'even if'.
No matter how expensive it is, I'll buy it.
No matter how much I practice, I don't get better.
Similar to いくら, but can also be used with adverbs. どんなに means 'how' or 'to what extent'.
No matter how fast I run, I won't make it in time.
Expressing that something is true whether or not a condition is met
A formal pattern meaning 'regardless of whether or not'. Used in written or formal spoken Japanese.
No matter whether you have experience or not, you can apply.
Means 'regardless of'. Used with nouns. More concise than 〜かどうかにかかわらず.
No matter the weather, the event will be held.
A formal/literary pattern meaning 'whether it be A or B'. Used to list alternatives.
No matter whether it's rain or snow, the game will be held.
Used in phrases like 'no matter' to dismiss a preceding statement, similar to 'it doesn't matter'
A casual phrase meaning 'it doesn't matter' or 'whatever'. Can sound dismissive or indifferent.
Can be rude if used inappropriately. Use with close friends only.
No matter about that. / That doesn't matter.
Means 'I don't mind' or 'it doesn't matter'. More polite than どうでもいい.
No matter which one. / Either is fine.
Use 〜ても after verbs and i-adjectives (te-form), and 〜でも after nouns and na-adjectives. For example: 高くても (even if expensive), 静かでも (even if quiet).
Do not translate 'no matter' word-for-word. There is no single Japanese word that directly corresponds. Always use the appropriate grammatical pattern.