Translation and Meaning of: 如何しても - doushitemo

Explanation and Etymology - (如何しても) doushitemo

The expressions 「如何しても」 and 「どうしても」 (doushitemo) are used in the Japanese language to indicate tenacity or insistence in achieving something, often translated as "in any way" or "by all means." Despite their close definitions, these expressions carry nuances that contextualize them differently in various situations.

Etymology and Origin

The expression 「如何しても」 is composed of the characters 「如」 and 「何」 which together form a questioning interjection related to the manner of doing something. The kanji 「如」 means "like" or "as", while 「何」 is commonly used to mean "what" or "how". This composition expresses the idea of seeking a way or method, even in challenges. 「どうしても」 is a more modern expression without the use of kanji, reflecting the evolution of the Japanese language towards more simplified forms in everyday speech over time.

In many contexts, 「どうしても」 reinforces a sense of inevitability or unyielding necessity. For example, someone might use this expression when referring to a desire or obligation that cannot be avoided. In contrast, 「如何しても」 may have a more classical and formal implication, although it is not used as commonly in current colloquial speech.

These expressions can be seen in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the speaker's intention. In short, 「どうしても」 is an integral part of emotional expression in the Japanese language, blending determination and inevitability into a single versatile term.