When you use どうせ (douse) in a sentence, it often means you've given up a little bit or you feel like something is going to happen no matter what you do.
For example, if you say 「どうせ無理だよ」(douse muri da yo), it means "It's impossible anyway."
It carries a feeling of resignation, like "It's probably going to end up this way anyway, so why bother?"
You might use it when you're a bit frustrated or resigned to a situation.
You might hear or see どうせ in Japanese. It's a handy adverb that means "anyway," "in any case," or "after all."
Think of it when someone is feeling a bit resigned or like something is unavoidable. For example, if you're going to lose, you might say, "どうせ負けるよ" (douse makeru yo), meaning "We're going to lose anyway."
It often carries a nuance of resignation or that the outcome is already decided. So, it's not just a neutral "anyway."
You'll often hear it in more casual conversations. It’s a good word to understand for capturing the nuance in certain situations.
When you use どうせ (douse) in a sentence, it often shows that you feel a bit resigned or that something is inevitable. It's like saying "anyway" or "after all," but with a nuance of giving up or expecting a certain outcome.
For example, if you say 「どうせ無理だ」 (douse muri da), it means "It's impossible anyway" or "It's no use, after all." This phrase suggests that you believe there's no point in trying because the outcome is already decided or you don't have much hope.
Another common usage is when you're talking about something that's likely to happen regardless of what you do. For instance, 「どうせ暇だから手伝うよ」 (douse hima dakara tetsudau yo) translates to "I'm free anyway, so I'll help." Here, it shows a casual acceptance of a situation.
So, remember that どうせ carries a sense of resignation or inevitability. It's a useful word to express that "anyway" feeling when you're not particularly enthusiastic about something, or when you've accepted a situation as it is.
When you use どうせ (douse) in a sentence, it often shows that you feel a bit resigned or that something is inevitable. It's like saying "anyway" or "after all," but with a nuance of giving up or expecting a certain outcome.
For example, if someone says, 「どうせ無理だよ。」 (Douse muri da yo.), it means "It's impossible anyway," implying they don't think there's much point in trying.
You can also use it to express that something will happen no matter what, like 「どうせ間に合わない。」 (Douse maniawanai.), meaning "We won't make it in time anyway."
It's a useful word to convey a sense of inevitability or resignation in your Japanese communication.
When you use どうせ, you're usually expressing a sense of resignation or that something is inevitable. It often comes up when you're feeling a bit pessimistic or cynical about an outcome. Think of it as saying, 'Well, it's going to happen this way no matter what, so why bother?'
For example, if you're stuck in traffic and say, 'どうせ遅れるから、ゆっくり行こう,' you're acknowledging that you're going to be late anyway, so you might as well take your time. It can also imply a lack of motivation because the result seems predetermined. It's a useful word for conveying a certain mood or attitude about a situation.
When you use どうせ, it often shows that you feel resigned or that something is inevitable, even if you don't like it. For example, if you say 「どうせ無理だ」 (Dōse muri da), it means "It's impossible anyway" or "It's hopeless after all," implying you've already given up. It can also be used to express a sense of giving up before even trying, or acknowledging a situation with a hint of sarcasm or cynicism. Think of it as conveying an attitude of "what's the point?" or "it's going to happen no matter what."
どうせ in 30 Seconds
- expresses resignation
- implies inevitability
- often translates to 'anyway' or 'after all'
§ What does どうせ (douse) mean?
The Japanese adverb どうせ (douse) is a useful word that you'll hear often in natural conversations. It generally translates to "anyway," "in any case," or "after all." However, understanding its nuance is key to using it correctly. どうせ often carries a feeling of resignation, a sense that something is inevitable or that efforts are futile. It suggests that the speaker believes a particular outcome is fixed, regardless of what they or others do.
Think of it as saying, "No matter what I do, X will happen," or "It's going to end up like this regardless." This can stem from a variety of emotions: frustration, pessimism, a realistic assessment of a situation, or even a casual dismissal. It's not always negative; sometimes it's just acknowledging an obvious truth with a shrug.
§ When do people use どうせ (douse)?
People use どうせ in situations where they feel there's a predetermined outcome or that their actions won't change the situation. Here are some common scenarios:
- Expressing resignation: When someone has tried something multiple times without success and feels like it's pointless to try again.
- Predicting an inevitable outcome: When they foresee a certain result, often negative, and believe there's no way to avoid it.
- Dismissing an effort: When they feel that someone's efforts are in vain or won't make a significant difference.
- Making a casual, cynical observation: Sometimes it's used to simply state a perceived truth with a hint of cynicism or world-weariness.
§ Examples of どうせ (douse) in use
- DEFINITION
- Anyway; in any case; after all (often implies resignation).
Let's look at some examples to get a better feel for how どうせ is used:
「どうせ無理だろう。」
This translates to something like, "It's probably impossible anyway." Here, the speaker is expressing resignation that an attempt will likely fail.
「雨が降っているから、どうせ出かけられないよ。」
"It's raining, so we can't go out anyway." This shows a prediction of an inevitable outcome due to external circumstances.
「どうせやるなら、真剣にやろう。」
"If we're going to do it anyway, let's do it seriously." This example uses どうせ in a slightly different way, acknowledging the inevitability of an action and deciding to put full effort into it. It still carries the "since it's happening regardless" nuance.
When you encounter どうせ, always consider the surrounding words and the overall sentiment of the conversation. It's a powerful word for conveying a sense of finality or inevitability, and mastering its usage will make your Japanese sound much more natural.
Let's talk about どうせ (douse). This is an adverb that you'll hear a lot in natural Japanese conversations. It's often used when someone feels a sense of resignation, or when they're saying "anyway" or "after all" in a slightly negative or defeated way. It's not a super formal word, so you'll mostly hear it in casual speech.
§ Basic Meaning and Nuance
The core meaning of どうせ is 'anyway', 'in any case', or 'after all'. However, it carries a strong nuance of resignation, giving up, or a feeling that something is inevitable and you can't change it. It often implies a negative outlook or a lack of motivation.
- Definition Summary
- Anyway; in any case; after all (often implies resignation or a lack of hope).
§ How to Use どうせ in Sentences
どうせ is an adverb, so it can be placed before a verb, adjective, or even at the beginning of a sentence to modify the entire clause. It usually precedes the part of the sentence that expresses the inevitable outcome or the resigned feeling.
§ Before a Verb
This is a very common placement. It emphasizes the feeling of resignation towards the action.
「どうせ無理だから、やらない。」
- Translation Hint
- "It's impossible anyway, so I won't do it." (Implying: "No point trying.")
「どうせ遅れるだろうから、ゆっくり行こう。」
- Translation Hint
- "We'll be late anyway, so let's go slowly." (Implying: "Being on time is already out of the question.")
§ At the Beginning of a Sentence
When どうせ starts a sentence, it sets a tone of resignation for the entire statement that follows.
「どうせ誰も来ないだろう。」
- Translation Hint
- "No one will come anyway." (Implying: "I already expect no one to show up.")
「どうせ結果は変わらないよ。」
- Translation Hint
- "The result won't change anyway." (Implying: "There's nothing we can do to alter the outcome.")
§ With other particles or phrases
While どうせ is an adverb, it can sometimes be followed by particles like 〜なら (nara - if it's the case that...) to create more complex expressions of resignation or inevitability.
「どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。」
- Translation Hint
- "If we're going to do it anyway, let's do it properly." (Implying: "Since we have to do it, we might as well do it well.")
§ Important Nuances to Remember
- どうせ often expresses a negative or pessimistic outlook. The speaker feels that a certain undesirable outcome is unavoidable.
- It can imply a lack of effort because the speaker believes their actions won't change anything.
- While it means 'anyway', it's different from simply 'とにかく' (tonikaku), which means 'anyway' or 'at any rate' without the strong nuance of resignation.
When you hear or use どうせ, pay attention to the context and the speaker's tone. It's a key word for understanding subtle emotional cues in Japanese.
§ What does どうせ mean?
どうせ (douse) is an adverb you'll hear a lot in spoken Japanese. It carries a strong nuance of resignation or a sense that something is inevitable, often in a negative or cynical way. Think of it like saying "anyway," "in any case," or "after all," but with an added feeling of "it's pointless to try" or "it won't change."
- Japanese Word
- どうせ
- Type
- Adverb
- CEFR Level
- B1
- Definition
- Anyway; in any case; after all (often implies resignation).
§ どうせ in Work Situations
In the workplace, you might hear どうせ when someone is feeling discouraged about a task or a situation. It shows a lack of motivation or belief in a positive outcome.
どうせこの企画も通らないだろう。
Translation hint: "This plan won't pass, anyway/after all." (Implies resignation that the plan is doomed to fail).
「頑張っても、どうせ給料は上がらないよ。」
Translation hint: "Even if I try hard, my salary won't go up, anyway." (A cynical view on effort not being rewarded).
§ どうせ in School Life
Students often use どうせ when talking about assignments, tests, or future prospects. It can reflect a feeling of hopelessness or a lack of motivation.
どうせ勉強してもテストの点は変わらない。
Translation hint: "Even if I study, my test scores won't change, anyway/after all." (Expressing that effort feels futile).
「夏休み、どうせ宿題ばっかりだよ。」
Translation hint: "Summer vacation will just be homework, anyway." (A resigned complaint about inevitable assignments).
§ どうせ in News and Media
While less common in formal news reports, you might encounter どうせ in interviews, commentaries, or social media discussions where people express skepticism or resignation about political outcomes, social issues, or economic situations.
「政治家なんて、どうせ国民のことは考えてないだろう。」
Translation hint: "Politicians, after all/anyway, probably aren't thinking about the citizens." (A cynical view on politicians' motives).
§ Key Takeaways for どうせ
Here are the main points about どうせ:
- It expresses resignation, inevitability, or a sense of futility.
- Often used when someone feels something is pointless or won't change.
- Can come across as negative or cynical.
- You'll hear it in casual conversations, especially when people are complaining or expressing discouragement.
§ What Does どうせ Mean?
- Definition
- Anyway; in any case; after all (often implies resignation or a feeling of futility).
どうせ (douse) is a useful Japanese adverb. It usually expresses a feeling of resignation, a lack of hope, or a sense that something is inevitable no matter what you do. It's often used when you're about to do something, or talking about something, but you don't really expect a good outcome or you feel like the effort is pointless. Think of it as saying "what's the point?" or "it's going to end up like this anyway."
You'll hear どうせ in everyday conversations, especially when someone is a bit cynical or feeling down. It adds a nuanced layer to your sentences, showing that you've considered other possibilities but have concluded that the outcome is fixed or negative.
§ Examples of どうせ in Use
どうせ無理だから、やらない。
- Hint
- It's impossible anyway, so I won't do it.
どうせ彼には伝わらないだろう。
- Hint
- It won't get through to him anyway.
「頑張れ！」「どうせ無理だよ。」
- Hint
- "Hang in there!" "It's no use anyway."
§ Similar Words and When to Use どうせ
While どうせ implies resignation, there are other words in Japanese that express similar concepts but with different nuances. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right word for the situation.
結局 (kekkyoku): This also means "after all" or "in the end," but it's more neutral. It simply states the final outcome without the strong sense of resignation or futility that どうせ carries. 結局 focuses on the result, while どうせ emphasizes the feeling behind the inevitability of that result.
頑張ったけど、結局間に合わなかった。
- Hint
- I tried my best, but in the end, I didn't make it.
In this example, 結局 just states the fact. If you used どうせ, it would imply a feeling of "I knew I wouldn't make it anyway."
結局のところ (kekkyoku no tokoro): This is a slightly more formal version of 結局, meaning "when all is said and done" or "at the end of the day." It's often used when summarizing a complex situation.
どうせなら (douse nara): This is a common phrase that combines どうせ with なら (if; in that case). It means "if that's the case anyway" or "if we're doing it anyway." This phrase is used when you've accepted an inevitable situation and want to make the best of it, or choose the most beneficial option given the circumstances.
どうせなら、一番美味しいものを食べたい。
- Hint
- If that's the case anyway, I want to eat the most delicious thing.
Here, the speaker has resigned themselves to eating something, and since they are going to eat anyway, they might as well eat the best.
所詮 (shosen): This word also means "after all" or "in the end," but it often carries a sense of looking down on something or realizing its limitations. It implies that something is not as great or important as it seems. While similar to どうせ in expressing a definitive conclusion, 所詮 is more about underestimating or belittling, whereas どうせ is about resignation to an outcome.
所詮人間は弱いものだ。
- Hint
- After all, humans are weak creatures.
§ When to Use どうせ
Use どうせ when you want to express:
- Resignation: You've tried or thought about trying, but you feel the outcome is already decided and likely negative.
- Futility: You believe an action is pointless because it won't change the inevitable.
- Cynicism: A general feeling that things won't go well.
How Formal Is It?
"いずれにせよ、会議は来週に延期されました。"
"とにかく、私はそれを試してみます。"
"どうせ間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。"
"どうせ無理だよ、やめようよ。"
"どーせ無理だし、もう諦めたわ。"
Difficulty Rating
Short word, easy to recognize hiragana.
Simple hiragana characters.
Pronunciation is straightforward.
Clear pronunciation, easy to distinguish.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Examples by Level
どうせ行かないんでしょ？
You're not going anyway, right?
どうせ間に合わないよ。
We won't make it in time anyway.
どうせ無理だよ。
It's impossible anyway.
どうせ私には関係ない。
It has nothing to do with me anyway.
どうせ暇だから手伝うよ。
I'm free anyway, so I'll help.
どうせ買うならいいものがいい。
If you're going to buy it anyway, a good one is better.
どうせ負けるなら、頑張ろう。
If we're going to lose anyway, let's do our best.
どうせ食べるなら、美味しいものがいい。
If you're going to eat anyway, something delicious is good.
どうせ間に合わないよ。
Anyway, I won't make it in time.
どうせ誰も来ないでしょ。
Nobody will come anyway, right?
どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。
If you're going to do it anyway, let's do it properly.
どうせ食べきれないよ。
I won't be able to eat it all anyway.
どうせ雨が降るだろう。
It will probably rain anyway.
どうせ嘘だと思っていた。
I thought it was a lie anyway.
どうせ高いから買わない。
It's expensive anyway, so I won't buy it.
どうせもう遅いよ。
It's already too late anyway.
どうせ行ってもつまらないよ。
Anyway, it'll be boring even if I go.
どうせ間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。
We won't make it anyway, so let's go slowly.
どうせダメなら、やってみよう。
If it's going to be a failure anyway, let's just try it.
どうせ私も行かないから、気にしないで。
I'm not going either anyway, so don't worry about it.
どうせ彼は来ないだろう。
He probably won't come anyway.
どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。
If you're going to do it anyway, do it properly.
どうせ忘れるから、メモしておこう。
I'll forget it anyway, so I'll write it down.
どうせ無理だと思ったけど、やってみた。
I thought it was impossible anyway, but I tried it.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
どうせ来ないだろう。
He probably won't come anyway.
どうせ間に合わないよ。
We won't make it in time anyway.
どうせなら一番いいものを買おう。
If we're going to buy it anyway, let's buy the best one.
どうせ誰も聞いてないから言っちゃおう。
Since no one is listening anyway, I'll just say it.
どうせ諦めるなら、最初からやらなければよかった。
If I was going to give up anyway, I shouldn't have started in the first place.
どうせ結果は変わらない。
The result won't change anyway.
どうせ僕には関係ない。
It has nothing to do with me anyway.
どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。
If you're going to do it anyway, do it properly.
どうせ私なんて…
Anyway, someone like me...
どうせ後で後悔するだろう。
I'll regret it later anyway.
Often Confused With
Focus on 'final outcome' vs. 'resignation.'
Distinguish between 'resignation' vs. 'at least/get to the point.'
Remember 'neutral regardless' vs. 'negative resignation.'
Easily Confused
Both どうせ and 結局 can be translated as 'after all' or 'in the end.' The confusion arises when learners aren't sure which one to use to express resignation versus a final outcome.
どうせ (douse) implies resignation or a feeling of 'it's no use anyway,' often before an action or as an excuse not to act. 結局 (kekkyoku) describes the actual outcome or conclusion of a situation, often after a series of events.
どうせ 間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。 (Douse maniawanai kara, yukkuri ikou.) - We won't make it anyway, so let's go slowly. 色々あったけど、結局 彼と別れた。(Iroiro atta kedo, kekkyoku kare to wakareta.) - A lot happened, but in the end, I broke up with him.
Both can be translated as 'anyway' or 'in any case.' Learners might struggle to differentiate when to use a word to dismiss a previous point versus expressing resignation.
どうせ (douse) expresses resignation or a negative expectation. とにかく (tonikaku) is used to change the subject, get to the main point, or emphasize 'at least' or 'anyway' in a more neutral or positive way, often urging action.
どうせ 雨だから、どこにも行きたくない。(Douse ame dakara, doko ni mo ikitakunai.) - It's going to rain anyway, so I don't want to go anywhere. とにかく、やってみよう！(Tonikaku, yatte miyou!) - Anyway, let's just try it!
This is a direct derivative of どうせ, but its nuance changes slightly, making it confusing if learners don't understand the 'if it's going to be anyway' implication.
どうせ (douse) is a standalone adverb of resignation. どうせなら (douse nara) means 'if it's going to be anyway' or 'since it's already decided/going to happen, then...' It often precedes a suggestion for making the best of a resigned situation.
どうせ 失敗するだろう。(Douse shippai suru darou.) - I'll probably fail anyway. どうせなら、一番良いものを選ぼう。(Douse nara, ichiban ii mono wo erabou.) - If it's going to be anyway, let's choose the best one.
This phrase also translates to 'in any case' or 'anyway,' making it similar in meaning to どうせ but lacking the strong resignation.
どうせ (douse) carries a strong sense of resignation or hopelessness. いずれにしても (izure ni shitemo) is a more neutral phrase meaning 'in any case' or 'regardless of the situation,' often used to summarize or move on from different possibilities without the negative undertone.
どうせ 彼には言っても無駄だ。(Douse kare ni wa ittemo muda da.) - It's useless to tell him anyway. 彼が行くか行かないか、いずれにしても私には関係ない。(Kare ga iku ka ikanai ka, izure ni shitemo watashi ni wa kankei nai.) - Whether he goes or not, in any case, it has nothing to do with me.
While not a direct synonym, the phrase 'no matter how you think about it' can sometimes lead to a similar conclusion as 'after all' or 'anyway,' creating subtle confusion.
どうせ (douse) expresses a feeling of resignation based on a general understanding or expectation. どう考えても (dou kangaetemo) literally means 'no matter how you think about it,' indicating a conclusion reached after thorough consideration, often leading to a definitive negative assessment without the emotional resignation of どうせ.
どうせ 僕には無理だ。(Douse boku ni wa muri da.) - It's impossible for me anyway. どう考えても、その計画は成功しない。(Dou kangaetemo, sono keikaku wa seikou shinai.) - No matter how you think about it, that plan won't succeed.
Sentence Patterns
どうせ + [verb/adjective/noun phrase] + だ/です/だろう
どうせ間に合わないだろう。 (We won't make it anyway.)
どうせ + [verb/adjective] + から
どうせ終わらないから、休憩しよう。 (Since it won't finish anyway, let's take a break.)
どうせ + [conditional form] なら
どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。 (If we're going to do it anyway, let's do it properly.)
どうせ + [interrogative] + か/だろう
どうせ誰にもわからないよ。 (No one will know anyway.)
Tips
Focus on the nuance of resignation
The core feeling of どうせ is resignation. It often suggests that something is inevitable or that efforts are futile. Think of it as 'what's the point?' or 'it's going to happen anyway.'
Commonly used with negative outcomes
You'll frequently hear どうせ used when someone is talking about an expected negative outcome or something they don't want to happen but believe will.
Often at the beginning of a clause
どうせ often appears at the beginning of a clause or sentence, setting the tone for what follows. For example: どうせ無理だ (It's impossible anyway).
Don't confuse with とにかく or いずれにしても
While 'anyway' can be a translation, どうせ carries a stronger sense of resignation or negativity than とにかく (anyway, at any rate) or いずれにしても (in any case). These latter two are more neutral.
Practice with common phrases
Try memorizing and practicing phrases like: どうせ間に合わない (We won't make it anyway), どうせ誰もやらない (No one will do it anyway), or どうせそうなるだろう (It'll probably turn out that way anyway).
Can sound pessimistic
Using どうせ too frequently can make you sound pessimistic or unmotivated. Be mindful of the context and your audience.
Look for the implied 'even if'
Sometimes, どうせ implies an 'even if' scenario. For example, どうせやっても無駄だ (It's useless even if we do it anyway).
Listen for the intonation
The intonation when someone says どうせ can emphasize the feeling of frustration or defeat. Pay attention to how native speakers use it.
Use with verbs in plain form
どうせ is often followed by a verb in its plain form (dictionary form, -nai form, -ta form), or sometimes by adjectives or nouns + だ/です.
Think of it as 'at the end of the day'
Another way to grasp the meaning of どうせ is to think of it as 'at the end of the day' when you're implying a less-than-ideal but unavoidable conclusion.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of it like this: '**DOU** (do) you **SE**e (say) what I mean? It's all going to end up the same **anyway**.' The 'anyway' part connects to the meaning.
Visual Association
Imagine a person shrugging their shoulders, with a speech bubble saying 'どうせ' (douse) and a thought bubble showing a predictable, perhaps slightly negative, outcome. They're resigning themselves to something happening 'anyway.'
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'どうせ' when expressing resignation or a predictable outcome in these scenarios: 1. You've studied hard for a test, but you feel like you're going to fail anyway. Example: 「どうせ落ちるだろう。」 (Douse ochiru darou.) - *I'll probably fail anyway.* 2. You're trying to convince a friend to do something, but you know they're probably going to do what they want anyway. Example: 「どうせ私の言うこと聞かないでしょ？」 (Douse watashi no iu koto kikanai desho?) - *You won't listen to what I say anyway, will you?* 3. You're commenting on a situation where the outcome seems inevitable. Example: 「どうせこうなると思った。」 (Douse kou naru to omotta.) - *I knew it would end up like this anyway.*
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Expressing resignation about a foreseeable outcome.
- どうせ無理だよ。
- It's impossible anyway.
- どうせ失敗すると思った。
- I thought it would fail anyway.
- どうせ誰も聞かないだろう。
- No one will listen anyway.
Indicating something will happen regardless of effort.
- どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。
- If you're going to do it anyway, do it properly.
- どうせ雨が降るだろうから、傘を持っていこう。
- It's going to rain anyway, so let's take an umbrella.
- どうせ買うなら、いいものを買いたい。
- If I'm going to buy it anyway, I want to buy something good.
Dismissing an idea or possibility with a sense of futility.
- どうせ間に合わないよ。
- We won't make it in time anyway.
- どうせ誰も信じないよ。
- No one will believe it anyway.
- どうせ変わらないさ。
- It won't change anyway.
Making a decision or taking action because the alternative is equally bad or inevitable.
- どうせ暇だから、手伝うよ。
- I'm free anyway, so I'll help.
- どうせ食べられないなら、捨てよう。
- If we can't eat it anyway, let's throw it away.
- どうせ寝るなら、早く寝よう。
- If we're going to sleep anyway, let's sleep early.
Emphasizing a situation's inevitability.
- どうせ終わりのない仕事だ。
- It's a never-ending job anyway.
- どうせ君には関係ないことだ。
- It has nothing to do with you anyway.
- どうせ一度は経験することだ。
Conversation Starters
"最近、何か「どうせ…」と思って諦めたことはありますか？"
"友達や家族が「どうせ無理」と言っている時、どう答えますか？"
"「どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう」と思った経験はありますか？"
"雨が降るとわかっていて、傘を持っていかない派ですか、それとも「どうせ降るから」と持っていく派ですか？"
"将来について、「どうせこうなるだろう」と漠然と思っていることはありますか？"
Journal Prompts
最近「どうせ」とネガティブに考えてしまった出来事について、その時の気持ちと、もし違う考え方ができたとしたらどうだったか書き出してみましょう。
「どうせ」という言葉がポジティブな意味で使われるとしたら、どんな状況が考えられますか？具体的な例を挙げて説明してください。
もしあなたが時間を無制限に使えるとしたら、「どうせ」と諦めていたことの中で、何をもう一度挑戦してみたいですか？
あなたが誰かに「どうせ」と諦めかけていることを相談された時、どのように励ましますか？具体的な言葉を考えてみましょう。
「どうせ」という言葉を使わないと決めたら、あなたの日常の考え方や行動にどんな変化が起こると思いますか？
Test Yourself 114 questions
Choose the best English translation for 「どうせ」in the following sentence: 「どうせ無理だ。」
「どうせ」 often implies resignation, so 'Anyway, it's impossible' fits well.
Which of these sentences uses 「どうせ」 correctly to express resignation?
「どうせ、彼は来ないだろう。」(Anyway, he probably won't come.) shows resignation.
Which word is an adverb similar in meaning to 「どうせ」, indicating 'after all' or 'in any case'?
「結局」 (kekkyoku) means 'after all' or 'eventually', similar to the implication of resignation in 「どうせ」.
「どうせ」 is typically used when someone is optimistic about an outcome.
「どうせ」 often implies a sense of resignation or that things won't change, which is not optimistic.
The phrase 「どうせなら」 can be translated as 'If that's the case anyway' or 'Since it's going to be that way anyway'.
「どうせなら」 is a common expression meaning 'If that's the case anyway' or 'Since it's going to be that way anyway'.
「どうせ」 always refers to something that has already happened.
「どうせ」 can refer to future events, often with the nuance of predicting a negative outcome.
It will probably rain anyway.
We won't make it in time anyway.
It's impossible anyway.
Read this aloud:
どうせ行かない。
Focus: どうせ (douse)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ食べない。
Focus: 食べない (tabenai)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ見ない。
Focus: 見ない (minai)
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パーティーはつまらなかった。___ 帰りたかった。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」「どうせ」という意味で、諦めの気持ちを表します。ここでは「パーティーがつまらなかったので、どうせ帰りたいと思っていた」という文脈に合います。
雨が降っている。___ 行っても濡れるだけだ。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」という意味で、無駄な努力をすることへの諦めを表します。雨が降っているので、どうせ行っても濡れるだけだ、という文脈に合います。
この仕事は難しい。___ 失敗するだろう。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」という意味で、悪い結果になることへの諦めや予測を表します。この仕事は難しいので、どうせ失敗するだろう、という文脈に合います。
彼はいつも遅刻する。___ 今日も来ないだろう。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」という意味で、習慣的な行動に対する諦めや予測を表します。彼はいつも遅刻するので、どうせ今日も来ないだろう、という文脈に合います。
ダイエットしても意味がない。___ また太るんだから。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」という意味で、努力が無駄になることへの諦めを表します。ダイエットしても意味がない、どうせまた太るんだから、という文脈に合います。
この映画はつまらない。___ 途中で寝てしまうだろう。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」という意味で、悪い結果になることへの諦めや予測を表します。この映画はつまらないので、どうせ途中で寝てしまうだろう、という文脈に合います。
Someone is saying it's too late.
The speaker thinks 'you' won't come.
The speaker predicts rain for tomorrow.
Read this aloud:
どうせ彼は来ない。
Focus: どうせ (douse)
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Read this aloud:
どうせダメだ。
Focus: ダメ (dame)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ僕がやるしかない。
Focus: やるしかない (yaru shikanai)
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Write a short sentence expressing that you'll do something, even if it's difficult, using どうせ.
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Sample answer
どうせやるなら、最後まで頑張ります。(If I'm going to do it anyway, I'll do my best until the end.)
Imagine someone is complaining about something that can't be changed. Write a sentence using どうせ to express resignation.
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Sample answer
どうせ変わらないから、もう諦めよう。(Since it won't change anyway, let's just give up.)
You are going to do something boring, but you have to. Write a sentence using どうせ to show this feeling.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
どうせやるなら、早く終わらせたい。(If I have to do it anyway, I want to finish it quickly.)
Why does B suggest playing games at home?
Read this passage:
A: 今日は雨だから、ピクニックは中止だね。B: うん、どうせ外で遊べないし、家でゲームでもしようか。 (A: It's raining today, so the picnic is canceled, isn't it? B: Yeah, we can't play outside anyway, so how about we play games at home?)
Why does B suggest playing games at home?
The phrase どうせ外で遊べないし (we can't play outside anyway) indicates that the rain is the reason for the change in plans.
The phrase どうせ外で遊べないし (we can't play outside anyway) indicates that the rain is the reason for the change in plans.
What is the speaker's attitude towards the homework?
Read this passage:
宿題がたくさんあるけど、どうせ終わらせないといけないから、今から始めよう。(There's a lot of homework, but I have to finish it anyway, so let's start now.)
What is the speaker's attitude towards the homework?
The use of どうせ here implies a sense of resignation; they might not want to do it, but they accept that it needs to be done.
The use of どうせ here implies a sense of resignation; they might not want to do it, but they accept that it needs to be done.
What does her statement 'どうせ無理だ' reveal about her attitude?
Read this passage:
彼女は「どうせ無理だ」と言って、何も挑戦しようとしなかった。(She said, 'It's impossible anyway,' and didn't try to challenge anything.)
What does her statement 'どうせ無理だ' reveal about her attitude?
「どうせ無理だ」 (It's impossible anyway) shows a resigned attitude, implying she feels there's no point in trying.
「どうせ無理だ」 (It's impossible anyway) shows a resigned attitude, implying she feels there's no point in trying.
This sentence means 'It will probably rain anyway.' The adverb どうせ comes at the beginning to express resignation.
This sentence means 'I won't make it anyway, so I won't hurry.' どうせ sets the tone of resignation.
This sentence means 'I thought it was impossible anyway.' どうせ expresses the feeling of it being futile.
___ 頑張っても、結果は変わらないだろう。
「どうせ」は「結局は」という意味で、努力しても結果は変わらないという諦めの気持ちを表します。
雨が降っているから、___ 家にいるよ。
「どうせ」は「いずれにしても」という意味で、雨が降っているから外出するのを諦めて家にいるという状況を表します。
___ 間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。
「どうせ」は「どうせ間に合わない」という諦めの気持ちを表し、急いでも無駄だというニュアンスを含みます。
彼は___ 来ないだろうと、私は思っていた。
「どうせ来ないだろう」は、彼が来ないだろうという予測に諦めの気持ちが込められています。
試験勉強を始めても、___ 良い点数は取れないだろう。
「どうせ」は「結局のところ」という意味で、勉強しても結果は同じだろうという諦めの気持ちを表します。
___ やっても無駄だと、彼は諦めていた。
「どうせやっても無駄」は、努力しても意味がないという強い諦めの気持ちを表します。
Someone is saying it's too late.
A person is encouraging someone to do things properly.
Someone achieved something they thought was impossible.
Read this aloud:
どうせ行かないんでしょ？
Focus: どうせ (douse)
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Read this aloud:
どうせなら、一番いいものを選びたい。
Focus: どうせなら (douse nara)
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Read this aloud:
どうせなら、もっと早く言ってよ。
Focus: どうせなら (douse nara)
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This sentence means 'It'll probably rain anyway.' 'どうせ' comes at the beginning, setting the tone of resignation.
This means 'I think he won't come anyway.' 'どうせ' modifies '来ない' (won't come).
This translates to 'If you're going to do it anyway, do it with all your might.' 'どうせ' sets up the condition 'やるなら' (if you're going to do it).
The speaker is suggesting to go slowly because they won't make it on time anyway.
Someone thought it was impossible, but they tried it and succeeded.
The speaker gave an honest opinion, thinking no one would listen anyway.
Read this aloud:
どうせなら、一番いいものを選びたい。
Focus: どうせなら (dōse nara)
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Read this aloud:
どうせやるなら、最後までやり遂げよう。
Focus: やり遂げよう (yaritoge yō)
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Read this aloud:
どうせもう遅いし、今日はもう寝よう。
Focus: もう遅いし (mō osoi shi)
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___ 彼は来ないだろう。 (___ Kare wa konai darou.) - He probably won't come anyway.
どうせ (douse) is used here to express a sense of resignation that he probably won't come.
雨が降っているから、___ 外に出るのはやめよう。 (Ame ga futte iru kara, ___ soto ni deru no wa yameyou.) - It's raining, so let's not go outside anyway.
どうせ (douse) implies that even if they went out, the rain would make it difficult or unpleasant, leading to a decision not to go.
___ 頑張っても結果は同じだ。 (___ Ganbattemo kekka wa onaji da.) - The result will be the same no matter how hard I try anyway.
どうせ (douse) conveys a feeling of resignation that effort won't change the predetermined outcome.
彼は___ 約束を破るだろう。 (Kare wa ___ yakusoku o yaburu darou.) - He'll probably break his promise anyway.
どうせ (douse) is used to express a pessimistic expectation that a promise will be broken, often implying it's a habitual behavior.
___ 間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。 (___ Maniawanai kara, yukkuri ikou.) - We won't make it in time anyway, so let's go slowly.
どうせ (douse) suggests a resignation to being late, so there's no point rushing.
そんなこと言ったって、___ 無駄だよ。 (Son'na koto ittatte, ___ muda da yo.) - Even if you say such a thing, it's useless anyway.
どうせ (douse) emphasizes the futility of saying something, indicating that it won't change anything.
Choose the most appropriate meaning for どうせ in the following sentence: 「どうせ無理だから、やらない方がいい。」
どうせ (douse) often carries a nuance of resignation or a predetermined negative outcome, making 'anyway' or 'after all' the most fitting translation here.
Which sentence uses どうせ correctly to express a feeling of resignation?
In 「どうせ、彼は来ないだろう。」(After all, he probably won't come.), どうせ conveys resignation that he won't come, a common use.
Select the sentence where どうせ implies 'in any case, it's all the same'.
「どうせなら、一番良いものを選びたい。」(If that's the case anyway, I want to choose the best one.) implies a 'since it's going to be this way anyway, might as well make it the best' sentiment.
どうせ can always be replaced by 'probably' without changing the nuance of resignation.
While 'probably' can sometimes convey uncertainty, どうせ specifically adds a nuance of resignation or a predetermined negative outcome that 'probably' alone does not always capture. For example, 'どうせ無理だ' is stronger than 'たぶん無理だ'.
どうせ is commonly used to express a positive and hopeful outlook.
どうせ typically implies resignation, pessimism, or a cynical view, making it unsuitable for expressing positive and hopeful outlooks.
In the phrase 「どうせなら」, どうせ means 'since it's going to be this way anyway'.
「どうせなら」is a common usage where どうせ indeed means 'since it's going to be this way anyway' or 'if that's the case anyway', often followed by a suggestion to make the best of the situation.
The speaker suggests taking it easy because they won't make it in time anyway.
Someone thought it was impossible, but it turned out they could do it.
The speaker decides to go home because probably no one will come.
Read this aloud:
どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう。
Focus: どうせ (douse)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ結果は同じだろう。
Focus: 結果 (kekka)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ私には関係ない。
Focus: 関係 (kankei)
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You've been working on a project for months, and despite your best efforts, it's not going well. You're feeling discouraged and are about to give up. Write a short paragraph in Japanese expressing your resignation using "どうせ".
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
このプロジェクトに何ヶ月も取り組んできたが、どうせうまくいかないだろう。もう諦めようと思う。こんなに努力したのに。
Imagine a friend is complaining about a difficult situation, and you want to tell them that there's no point in worrying about it because things will happen as they're meant to, using "どうせ". Write a short dialogue (2-3 lines) in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A: ああ、どうしよう。心配で眠れないよ。 B: どうせなるようにしかならないよ。心配しても仕方ないさ。
You are observing someone who always complains about their circumstances but never takes action to change them. Write a sentence in Japanese describing this person's attitude using "どうせ" to highlight their resignation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼はいつも文句ばかり言うが、どうせ何も行動しないだろう。現状維持のままだ。
この文脈において、「どうせ失敗するだろう」という発言から読み取れる友人どのような感情ですか？
Read this passage:
友達が新しい事業を始めることになった。しかし、彼は「どうせ失敗するだろう」と最初から諦め気味だ。私としては、もっと前向きに考えてほしいのだが、彼の性格上、それは難しいかもしれない。
この文脈において、「どうせ失敗するだろう」という発言から読み取れる友人どのような感情ですか？
「どうせ」はしばしば諦めや悲観的な気持ちを伴います。この文脈では、友人が新しい事業に対して最初から成功を期待していないことが示されています。
「どうせ」はしばしば諦めや悲観的な気持ちを伴います。この文脈では、友人が新しい事業に対して最初から成功を期待していないことが示されています。
部長の「どうせ実現不可能だろう」という発言は、どのような意図を持っていますか？
Read this passage:
会議で新しい提案が出された。しかし、部長は「どうせ実現不可能だろう」と一言で却下した。彼の態度は、チームの士気を下げてしまったようだ。
部長の「どうせ実現不可能だろう」という発言は、どのような意図を持っていますか？
「どうせ」という言葉が使われていることから、部長がその提案に対して最初から疑いの目で見ている、つまり懐疑的であることが分かります。
「どうせ」という言葉が使われていることから、部長がその提案に対して最初から疑いの目で見ている、つまり懐疑的であることが分かります。
友人が「どうせ雨だから」と言ったことで、旅行計画に対してどのような影響がありましたか？
Read this passage:
週末の旅行の計画を立てていたが、天気予報は雨だった。友人は「どうせ雨だから、家でゆっくりしよう」と提案した。私もその意見に同意し、結局家で過ごすことになった。
友人が「どうせ雨だから」と言ったことで、旅行計画に対してどのような影響がありましたか？
「どうせ雨だから」という発言は、雨が降ることが確実であるという諦めから、旅行に行くことをやめ、家で過ごすという計画変更につながっています。
「どうせ雨だから」という発言は、雨が降ることが確実であるという諦めから、旅行に行くことをやめ、家で過ごすという計画変更につながっています。
This sentence expresses resignation, meaning 'It's impossible anyway, so I'll just stop.'
This sentence implies 'If I'm going to be late anyway, I'll just take my time.'
This sentence indicates a prior understanding that 'I knew he wasn't coming anyway.'
Choose the sentence where 「どうせ」 is used to express resignation about an inevitable negative outcome.
This sentence means 'We won't make it anyway, so let's go slowly.' It clearly shows resignation.
Select the most natural translation for: 「どうせ無理だから、試すだけ時間の無駄だ。」
「どうせ」 here conveys a sense of 'anyway' or 'after all' with resignation, making the first option the most fitting.
Which of the following sentences correctly uses 「どうせ」 to imply that something is going to happen regardless?
This sentence means 'It's probably going to rain anyway, so let's take an umbrella.' It uses 「どうせ」 to indicate an anticipated, unavoidable event.
「どうせ」 can sometimes be used to mean 'since it's going to happen anyway, might as well make the best of it.'
While often implying resignation, 「どうせ」 can indeed be used in contexts like 'どうせやるなら、ちゃんとやろう' (If you're going to do it anyway, do it properly).
Using 「どうせ」 typically indicates a positive and optimistic outlook.
「どうせ」 usually carries a negative connotation, suggesting resignation, pessimism, or the inevitability of an unfavorable outcome.
「どうせ」 can be used interchangeably with 「結局」 (kekkyoku) in all contexts.
While both can mean 'after all,' 「どうせ」 often implies a predetermined or resigned outcome from the speaker's perspective, whereas 「結局」 is more neutral, simply stating the final result.
It probably won't be fun anyway, even if I go.
Anyway, no one listens to what I say.
Even if you think it's impossible anyway, it's worth a try.
Read this aloud:
どうせ間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。
Focus: どうせ (dōse)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ雨が降るだろうから、傘を持っていこう。
Focus: だろう (darō)
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Read this aloud:
どうせ結果は変わらない。頑張るだけだ。
Focus: 変わらない (kawaranai)
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You've been trying to learn a new skill, but progress is slow. Write a short journal entry expressing your frustration, using 'どうせ' to convey a sense of resignation or discouragement.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
新しいスキルを学んでいるけど、どうせ私には無理だ。毎日練習しても、なかなか上達しない。もう諦めてしまおうかとさえ思う。こんなに時間がかかるなら、最初から始めなければよかった。
Imagine a scenario where a friend suggests going out, but you're feeling too tired and predict a disappointing outcome. Write your response to your friend, incorporating 'どうせ' to express your feeling.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
ごめん、今日はやめておくよ。どうせ行っても疲れるだけだし、特別面白いこともないだろうし。家でゆっくりしたい気分なんだ。
You are discussing a long-term problem with a colleague, and you both feel like all proposed solutions will ultimately fail. Write a short dialogue where you use 'どうせ' to express this sentiment.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A: この問題、どうしたらいいんだろうね。 B: どうせ何をしても根本的な解決にはならないよ。結局、状況は変わらないだろう。
この文章から、彼の現状について最も適切に説明しているのはどれですか？
Read this passage:
彼はいつも頑張っているが、結果はなかなか出ない。周りの人も彼の努力を認めているが、運がないとしか言いようがない。彼自身も「どうせ俺には無理なんだ」と呟き、半ば諦めかけている。
この文章から、彼の現状について最も適切に説明しているのはどれですか？
文章中に「いつも頑張っているが、結果はなかなか出ない」「どうせ俺には無理なんだ」という表現があるため、努力しているが成果が出ず、諦めかけている状況が適切です。
文章中に「いつも頑張っているが、結果はなかなか出ない」「どうせ俺には無理なんだ」という表現があるため、努力しているが成果が出ず、諦めかけている状況が適切です。
このプロジェクトチームの状況を最もよく表しているのはどれですか？
Read this passage:
新しいプロジェクトが始まったが、参加メンバーの士気は低い。過去の失敗経験から、「どうせ今回も同じ結果になる」という空気が漂っている。リーダーはなんとかチームを鼓舞しようと努力しているが、壁は厚い。
このプロジェクトチームの状況を最もよく表しているのはどれですか？
「士気は低い」「過去の失敗経験から、『どうせ今回も同じ結果になる』という空気が漂っている」という記述から、この選択肢が最も適切です。
「士気は低い」「過去の失敗経験から、『どうせ今回も同じ結果になる』という空気が漂っている」という記述から、この選択肢が最も適切です。
「どうせ私には無理だよ」という彼女の言葉から読み取れる感情として、最も適切なものはどれですか？
Read this passage:
彼女は長年の夢だった海外留学の準備を進めていた。しかし、費用の問題や家族の反対など、次々と困難が立ちはだかった。ある日、彼女は友人に「どうせ私には無理だよ」と打ち明けた。その言葉には、これまで抱えていた葛藤と、夢を諦めざるを得ないという深い悲しみが込められていた。
「どうせ私には無理だよ」という彼女の言葉から読み取れる感情として、最も適切なものはどれですか？
「費用の問題や家族の反対など、次々と困難が立ちはだかった」「葛藤と、夢を諦めざるを得ないという深い悲しみが込められていた」という記述から、この選択肢が最も適切です。
「費用の問題や家族の反対など、次々と困難が立ちはだかった」「葛藤と、夢を諦めざるを得ないという深い悲しみが込められていた」という記述から、この選択肢が最も適切です。
This sentence expresses resignation, meaning 'No matter how much I try, the result probably won't change anyway.' 'どうせ' sets a tone of futility or inevitability.
Here, 'どうせ' implies a pre-existing belief or assumption that a certain outcome (him not coming) is inevitable. It conveys a sense of 'I knew it all along' or 'it's just as I expected'.
This sentence uses 'どうせ' to express a logical conclusion based on the current situation (late hour) that the shops are inevitably closed. It's a resigned acceptance of the likely truth.
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Summary
どうせ conveys a feeling of resignation, suggesting that a particular outcome is unavoidable or that effort is futile.
- expresses resignation
- implies inevitability
- often translates to 'anyway' or 'after all'
Focus on the nuance of resignation
The core feeling of どうせ is resignation. It often suggests that something is inevitable or that efforts are futile. Think of it as 'what's the point?' or 'it's going to happen anyway.'
Commonly used with negative outcomes
You'll frequently hear どうせ used when someone is talking about an expected negative outcome or something they don't want to happen but believe will.
Often at the beginning of a clause
どうせ often appears at the beginning of a clause or sentence, setting the tone for what follows. For example: どうせ無理だ (It's impossible anyway).
Don't confuse with とにかく or いずれにしても
While 'anyway' can be a translation, どうせ carries a stronger sense of resignation or negativity than とにかく (anyway, at any rate) or いずれにしても (in any case). These latter two are more neutral.
Example
どうせ間に合わないから、ゆっくり行こう。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More family words
還暦
B160th birthday (celebration of completing a 60-year cycle).
〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
B1To recognize each other's worth; to acknowledge.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
思春期
B1Adolescence; the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
