てでも
JLPT Level: N2
Meanings
even if I have to
by any means
no matter what
Usage
V-て + でも
N+でも
Na-adjective/な-adjective + でも
Explanation
てでも is used to emphasize that you are willing to do something or endure a situation no matter what happens next. It conveys strong determination or willingness to take drastic steps to achieve a goal, often in situations where success is uncertain or difficult. It is stronger and more forceful than the typical 〜ても. Note that with verbs you use the て-form and add でも; with nouns or na-adjectives you use でも after the noun/na-adjective form (e.g., N でも, Na-adjective stem + でも). Typical contexts include pursuing a goal at any cost, refusing to give up in the face of obstacles, or deciding to take an extreme action to ensure an outcome.
雨が降ってでも試合を続けると決めた。
あめがふってでもしあいをつづけるときめた。
I decided to continue the game even if it rains.
彼は失敗してでも諦めない。
かれはしっぱいしてでもあきらめない。
He won't give up even if he fails.
高くても買ってでも欲しい商品だ。
たかくても かってでも ほしい しょうひんだ。
It's a product I want so much that I would buy it even if it costs a lot.
仲間を守るために、危険があってでも突き進む。
なかまをまもるために、きけんがあってでもつきすすむ。
To protect my friends, I will press on even if there's danger.