Japanese grammar
What does ～にせよ～にせよ mean? Japanese grammar N1
～にせよ～にせよ means whether… or… (formal written style).
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N1 |
|---|---|
| Structure | N + にせよ + N + にせよ 普通形 + にせよ + 普通形 + にせよ |
| Romaji | niseyo niseyo |
| Meaning | whether… or… (formal written style) |
Forming it
| Noun | 成功 + にせよ + 失敗 + にせよ |
|---|---|
| Verb | 賛成する + にせよ + 反対する + にせよ |
How to use it
Like 「～にしろ～にしろ」 but more formal/literary; presents two possibilities then draws a shared conclusion.
- 「～にせよ～にせよ」 presents two opposing possibilities and asserts that the conclusion applies to both. Formal, commonly used in writing/argumentative text.
- Same meaning as 「～にしろ～にしろ」 (N1-090); choose by register: 「にせよ」 is formal, 「にしろ」 is more everyday.
- The second clause is usually a requirement/judgment that applies universally (「～べきだ」, 「必要がある」).
Examples
賛成するにせよ反対するにせよ、理由を述べる必要がある。
Whether you agree or disagree, you need to state your reasons.
成功にせよ失敗にせよ、記録は残しておくべきだ。
Success or failure, the records should be kept.
Keep in mind
- Attaches directly to a noun or to the plain form.
- When used with a single clause, 「～にせよ」 means "even if...".
Common mistakes
-
Wrong賛成するにせよ、理由を述べてください。
Whether you agree or disagree, please state your reasons.
Correct賛成するにせよ反対するにせよ、理由を述べてください。
The paired form needs TWO opposing clauses; a single clause is the mold 「～にせよ」 (even if…).
-
Wrong雨にせよ雪にせよで、中止だ。
Whether it's rain or snow, it's cancelled.
Correct雨にせよ雪にせよ、中止だ。
「にせよ」 attaches directly; don't add 「で」.
Exam tips
- 「にせよ～にせよ」 = whether A or B (literary); ≒「にしろ～にしろ」 which is more colloquial.