は兎も角
Setting aside, Apart from
Structure
Explanation
はともかく is a phrase that combines the topic-marking particle は with the adverb 兎も角, which means 'anyway' or 'putting that aside'. This grammar pattern is used to indicate that the speaker is setting aside topic (A) in order to emphasize that topic (B) is more important or relevant.
はともかく generally follows a noun. It is often used in situations where the speaker feels that (A) is of secondary importance, or not the main point of discussion, especially when compared to the more pressing matter of (B).
- このカバンのデザインはともかく、たくさん物が入って便利だ。Never mind the design, this bag is handy because it holds a lot.
- 成功するかしないかはともかく、まずはやってみることが大事だ。Whether you succeed or not, the important thing is to try first.
- 値段はともかく、品質のいいものを買いたい。Price aside, I want to buy something of good quality.
Fun-fact
The adverb 兎も角 is believed to originate from the Buddhist saying 兎角亀毛, which literally translates to 'rabbit horns and turtle fur'—a metaphor for things that are impossible or do not exist. While the direct link to the modern usage is debated, one can see a connection to English expressions like '(A) is beside the point', where a topic is dismissed as being irrelevant or a non-issue.
- 結果が良いか悪いかはともかく、一生懸命頑張ったことが大切だ。Whether the result is good or bad is beside the point; what's important is that you tried your best.
Examples
このケーキは、見た目は兎も角、味は最高だ。
Never mind its appearance, this cake tastes amazing.
値段は兎も角、このかばんの品質はとてもいい。
Putting the price aside, the quality of this bag is excellent.
勝ち負けは兎も角、まずはみんなで楽しみましょう。
Never mind winning or losing, let's all just have fun for now.
都会は兎も角、一度は田舎に住んでみたいです。
Apart from the city, I'd like to try living in the countryside at least once.
メインディッシュは兎も角、先にデザートを決めよう。
Let's set aside the main course for a moment and decide on dessert first.
食事は兎も角、せめてお茶だけでもどうですか。
Setting a meal aside, how about we at least grab a coffee?
彼が失敗した理由は兎も角として、まず解決策を考えなければならない。
Setting aside the reason for his failure, we first need to think of a solution.
筆記試験は兎も角、面接の準備はしっかりしてください。
Putting aside the written exam, please prepare thoroughly for the interview.
旅行の計画は兎も角、まずは宿題を終わらせなさい。
Never mind your travel plans; finish your homework first.
新車は兎も角、せめてこの古い車を修理してほしい。
Forget about a new car; I just want you to at least repair this old one.
大人は兎も角、子供たちの安全を第一に考えましょう。
Setting aside the adults, let's prioritize the safety of the children.
それが本当かどうかは兎も角として、確かに面白い話だね。
Whether it's true or not aside, it's certainly an interesting story.