であれ
Even if, Even, No matter
Structure
［な］Adjective + であれ
WH-Word + であれ
Explanation
Building upon である, the formal copula created from the conjunctive form of the auxiliary verb だ and the う-Verb ある, the expressions であれ and であろうと are used to declare a strong will or firm conviction.
Grammatically, あれ is the imperative form of ある, while あろうと is its positive volitional form followed by the particle と. Both structures are typically translated as 'even if (A), (B)' or 'no matter if (A), (B)'. However, their literal nuance is closer to 'let it be (A), (B) will not be affected'. This highlights that condition (A) has no bearing on the final outcome, much like saying 'so what if it is (A)?' in English.
Both であれ and であろうと most often connect to nouns in sentences that present a hypothetical situation or a question, frequently appearing with words such as どんな or たとえ.
- 社長であれ、ルールはルールだ。Even if you are the company president, rules are rules.
- 結果が何であれ、自分の決定に後悔はしない。No matter what the result is, I will not regret my decision.
- いくらお金持ちであろうと、幸せは買えないものだ。No matter how rich a person is, happiness is something that cannot be bought.
- 監督の命令：「嵐であろうと、試合は続行する。」The coach's order: 'Even if it's a storm, we will continue the game.'
Since both であれ and であろうと are built on forms indicating strong intent, these grammar points will often appear in sentences where the speaker is stating their personal opinions or resolutions with a great deal of force.
Examples
誰であれ、公平な裁判を受ける権利がある。
No matter who they are, everyone has the right to a fair trial.
どのような理由であれ、約束を破るのはよくない。
Whatever the reason may be, it's not good to break a promise.
何であれ、夢中になれるものがあると、人生はもっと楽しくなる。
No matter what it is, having something you're passionate about makes life more enjoyable.
たとえ冗談であれ、人を傷つけるようなことは言うべきではない。
Even if it's a joke, you shouldn't say things that hurt people.
子供であれ、一人の人間として尊重すべきだ。
Even if they are a child, you should respect them as an individual.
たとえ親友であれ、お金の貸し借りは慎重にすべきだ。
Even if it's your best friend, you should be cautious about lending or borrowing money.
どんな職業であれ、自分の仕事に誇りを持つことは大切だ。
No matter what your profession is, it's important to take pride in your work.
犯人が誰であれ、法の下に裁かれなければならない。
No matter who the culprit is, they must be judged under the law.
たとえ小さな失敗であれ、すぐに上司に報告する必要がある。
Even if it is a small mistake, it's necessary to report it to your superior immediately.
どんなに賢い人であれ、間違いをすることもある。
No matter how smart a person is, they sometimes make mistakes.
晴れであれ、雨であれ、試合は決行されます。
Whether it's sunny or rainy, the match will be held.
いかなる困難な状況であれ、決して希望を捨ててはいけない。
No matter how difficult the situation is, you must never give up hope.