JLPT N3

どうしても

No matter what, by all means, cannot help but

Structure

Adverb

How it works

This adverb indicates a strong desire, determination, or an unavoidable action/outcome. It can also imply an inability to achieve something despite strong effort.

Examples

どうしても彼女に謝りたかった。

I really wanted to apologize to her (no matter what).

Common mistakes

Using it too casually when a simple 『ぜひ』 or 『必ず』 would suffice for 'by all means' without the added emphasis of difficulty.

Tip

Think of it as 'come hell or high water' or 'there's no other way'.

More JLPT N3 grammar

See どうしても in real Japanese

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