は別として
Apart from, (Setting) aside, Whether or, Except for, Save for
Structure
A(1) + （か）+ B(1) + （か）+ は別として + Phrase
A(1) + （か）+ (Antonym) A(1) + (か）+ は別として + Phrase
A(1) + かどうか(2) + は別として + Phrase
A(1) + A［ない］(1) + は別として + Phrase
(1) Noun, ［な］Adjective、［い］Adjective、Verb
(2) か、か否か
Explanation
は別として is a fixed expression that means 'apart from (A)', 'leaving aside (A)', or 'not including (A)'. This grammar pattern is formed by combining the topic marker は with the noun 別 (meaning 'separate' or 'distinct') and として, which is derived from the て-form of する. Its literal sense is 'to treat (A) as a separate matter', effectively removing (A) from the main conversation to focus on a different point.
Because は acts as a standard topic marker, this expression can be attached to a noun or any phrase that は would typically follow. This often includes structures like かどうか, which indicates uncertainty.
- このスマートフォンの値段は別として、機能はとても優れている。Apart from the price, this smartphone's features are excellent.
- 冗談は別として、真面目な話をしよう。Jokes aside, let's have a serious talk.
- 彼が本当に来るかどうかは別として、そろそろ準備を始めないと。Leaving aside whether he's actually coming or not, we need to start getting ready soon.
- この映画の評価がいいかどうかは別として、私は感動した。Regardless of whether this movie has good reviews or not, I was moved.
A common variation involves repeating a word in its affirmative and negative forms before は別として. This creates the nuance of 'whether or not (A)', similar to using かどうか.
- この薬が苦い苦くないは別として、早く元気になるためには飲まなければならない。Whether this medicine is bitter or not, you have to drink it to get well soon.
- プロジェクトが成功するしないは別として、挑戦すること自体に意味がある。Whether or not the project succeeds, there is meaning in the challenge itself.
Although this grammar structure is used to set (A) apart from the main topic, it is often employed specifically to highlight that (A) is a noteworthy exception to the general statement the speaker wishes to make.
Caution
は別として can sometimes be substituted with は別にして with only a subtle difference in nuance. The particle と makes the statement sound more objective and factual, whereas に suggests that the speaker is consciously making the decision to separate (A).
- 味は別にして、このレストランの雰囲気は最高だ。Aside from the taste, the atmosphere of this restaurant is the best.
Examples
このバッグの値段は別として、デザインはとても気に入っている。
Aside from the price of this bag, I really like the design.
試合に勝てるかどうかは別として、最後まで全力を尽くそう。
Leaving aside whether we can win the match or not, let's give it our all until the very end.
この料理が美味しいか美味しくないかは別として、見た目は芸術的だ。
Putting aside whether this dish is delicious or not, its presentation is artistic.
ギターが上手かどうかは別として、弾くのが楽しい。
Setting aside whether I'm good at guitar or not, I enjoy playing it.
冗談は別として、なんで本当に遅刻したの？
Jokes aside, why were you actually late?
パーティーに行くか行かないかは別として、とりあえず詳細だけ確認しておこう。
Setting aside whether we go to the party or not, let's at least check the details for now.
彼の見た目は別として、性格はすごく優しい。
Putting his looks aside, he has a very kind personality.
あの映画が好きか嫌いかは別として、映像美は認めざるを得ない。
Regardless of whether you like or dislike that movie, you have to admit the cinematography was beautiful.
そのアイデアが実現可能かどうかは別として、聞いていてワクワクする。
Setting aside whether or not that idea is feasible, it's exciting to hear about.
誰の責任かは別として、まずはこの状況を何とかしなければならない。
Putting aside whose fault it is, we first have to do something about this situation.
その噂が本当かどうかは別として、多くの人が信じている。
Leaving aside whether that rumor is true or not, a lot of people believe it.
専門家は別として、普通の人はその違いに気づかないだろう。
Apart from experts, ordinary people probably wouldn't notice the difference.