〜にせよ

Even if...; Whether... or...

1. Overview

「〜にせよ」 is a grammatical structure used to express hypothetical situations or concessions, implying that regardless of the situation, the outcome or decision will remain unchanged. It often conveys a tone of acceptance or continuation despite certain conditions.

2. Structure

• Verb (plain form) + にせよ
• Noun + にせよ
• Adjective + にせよ

3. Usage Explanation

• Hypothetical Situations:
  It is used to speculate about a condition, suggesting that even if it happens or is true, it won’t affect the final outcome or decision.

• Concessions:
  It expresses that even if a condition is true, the action or result will remain unchanged, conveying a tone of compromise or determination.

• English Translation:
  It is often translated as "even if..." or "whether... or..."

4. Example Sentences

1. 忙しいにせよ、健康には気をつけるべきだ。
   Even if you're busy, you should still take care of your health.

2. 本当の話にせよ、信じがたい。
   Even if this is true, it's hard to believe.

3. 彼が行くにせよ行かないにせよ、私はこの計画を続けるつもりだ。
   Whether he goes or not, I intend to continue with this plan.

4. 雨が降るにせよ晴れるにせよ、試合は行われます。
   Whether it rains or shines, the match will go on.

5. 良いにせよ悪いにせよ、この決定を受け入れなければならない。
   Whether it’s good or bad, we have to accept this decision.

5. Key Points

• Formal Usage:
  「〜にせよ」 is typically used in written or formal conversations, reflecting a calm or rational tone.

• Contrast or Hypothesis:
  It is often used to compare two possibilities, stating that regardless of which one happens, the outcome will remain the same.

6. Similar Grammar

• 〜にしろ: A synonym with the same meaning as 「〜にせよ」.
  • Example: 忙しいにしろ、健康には気をつけるべきだ。
    Even if you're busy, you should still take care of your health.

7. Alternative Grammar

• 〜ても〜なくても: Used to express "whether or not something happens."
  • Example: 行っても行かなくても、結果は同じだ。
    Whether you go or not, the result will be the same.

8. Summary

「〜にせよ」 is used to express that regardless of a particular condition or situation, the subsequent action or outcome will remain unaffected. It emphasizes hypothetical situations or concessions and is commonly used in formal language to convey a balanced or rational tone.