あくまで
Meanings
1
to the end; persistently; stubbornly
usually written using kana alone
Used when someone does something all the way, without giving up, or insists on something strongly. Often implies determination or stubbornness.
He stubbornly insisted on his own opinion.
I'm prepared to fight to the bitter end.
2
usually written using kana alone
Used to emphasize that something is just as stated, without exaggeration or hidden meaning. Often softens a statement or clarifies a point.
This is just my personal opinion, but I think this plan is difficult.
Please take it purely as a reference.
Usage patterns
- あくまで〈事〉にすぎないit is merely 〈事〉, nothing more
This is merely my personal opinion, nothing more.
- あくまで〈動詞〉つもりだto intend to do something to the end / persistently
He intends to keep opposing it to the end.
- あくまで〈事〉であって、〈事〉ではないit is strictly X, not Y
This is strictly a reference, not an official decision.
- あくまで〈事〉を主張するto insist stubbornly on 〈事〉
She stubbornly insisted that she was right.