Translation guide
Expresses that something is done every time, with certainty, or without exception. Japanese uses adverbs, set phrases, and grammar patterns rather than a single direct equivalent.
Describes an action that is performed consistently, without exception, as a habit or rule.
The most common and versatile way to say 'without fail' in the sense of 'always' or 'every time'. Used for habitual actions or certain outcomes.
He goes jogging every morning without fail.
I brush my teeth before bed without fail.
Literally 'without missing/omitting'. Emphasizes that the action is never skipped. Often used for daily routines or habits.
She keeps a diary every day without fail.
Literally 'without forgetting'. Used when reminding someone to do something without fail, or describing that one remembers to do something every time.
Please take your medicine without fail.
Expresses that something will happen or must happen with absolute certainty, often in promises or predictions.
Also used for certainty. Can be used in promises, commands, or predictions to mean 'definitely' or 'without fail'.
I will reply tomorrow without fail.
Literally 'without mistake'. Emphasizes that something is certain or will definitely happen. Slightly more emphatic than 必ず.
He'll come without fail.
Means 'absolutely' or 'definitely'. Often used in strong promises or prohibitions. Can sound more emotional or emphatic.
I'll keep my promise without fail.
Emphasizes that a rule or statement applies to every single case, with no exceptions.
Can also be used to mean 'without exception'. Often used in general statements or rules.
All people die without fail.
Literally 'without exception'. More formal and explicit. Used in rules, regulations, or formal statements.
This rule applies without fail (without exception).
Used when telling someone to do something without fail, often with a sense of urgency or importance.
A polite but firm request pattern. 'Please make sure to do ~ without fail.'
Please come on time without fail.
A softer reminder: 'Please don't forget to do ~.' Implies 'without fail' in a less forceful way.
Please submit the documents without fail.
必ず is the most neutral and widely used for 'without fail'. 絶対に is stronger and often subjective, used in promises or prohibitions. 間違いなく emphasizes objective certainty, like 'undoubtedly'.
必ず is not used with negative commands (e.g., 'Don't do ~ without fail'). For negative commands, use 絶対に〜するな or 決して〜するな.
If you take this medicine, you will get better without fail.