N392/219

~ても~なくても

Verb (て-form) + も + Verb (negative) + てもTwo clauses sharing the same subject: first clause in ても form, second clause in なくても form

Meanings

  • whether or not
  • regardless of whether
  • no matter if

About this pattern

Explanation

~ても~なくても expresses that the outcome or situation remains the same regardless of whether the first event happens or not. It emphasizes indifference to a condition or choice. The pattern can connect two possibilities (positive vs negative) or two different predicates, with the common idea that the result is unchanged. It is commonly used to downplay concerns, to state that action is not affected by a condition, or to suggest that both possibilities lead to the same conclusion. Typical contexts include plans, outcomes, or permissions that are unaffected by a condition.

Learn in context

Example sentences

雨が降っても降らなくても、試合は行われる。

Whether it rains or not, the game will be held.

彼が来ても来なくても、パーティーは始まる。

Whether he comes or not, the party will start.

遅れても遅くても、私たちは結論を出す。

Whether you’re late or not, we’ll come to a conclusion.