By ProDev Teach | Updated May 2025
📘 Meaning & Usage
The grammar structure ～てでも／でも is used to express a strong determination or resolve to do something “even if it means doing something extreme or undesirable.”
Common translation: Even if I have to…, I’ll do it
Form:
- Verb て-form + でも
- Noun + でも (for emphasis or exaggeration)
Used when:
- Showing strong determination or desperation
- Willingness to go to extreme measures
💡 Example Sentences
- 何があっても、借金してでも大学に行きたい。
No matter what, I want to go to college even if I have to borrow money. - チケットが手に入らないなら、並んででも買うつもりだ。
If I can’t get the ticket easily, I’ll stand in line for it no matter what. - 命をかけてでも、彼女を守る。
Even if I have to risk my life, I’ll protect her. - 病気でも、試験には行く。
Even if I’m sick, I’ll still go to the exam. - どんな手を使ってでも、その情報を手に入れたい。
I want to get that information even if I have to use any means.
📝 Grammar Notes
- This form emphasizes determination to achieve something even under unfavorable conditions.
- Often found in personal goals, ambitions, or emotionally intense contexts.
- ～でも with nouns is often used to exaggerate or express extremity.
📝 Practice Exercises
1. Fill in the blanks
- どうしてもそのコンサートに行きたい。＿＿＿＿。
- 遅れても＿＿＿＿来てください。
- チャンスがあるなら、＿＿＿＿挑戦してみたい。
✔ Answers:
- お金を借りてでも
- 途中からでも
- 命をかけてでも
2. Translate into Japanese
- Even if I have to beg, I want to meet him once.
- Even if I’m tired, I’ll help you move.
- I’ll make it on time, even if I have to run.
✔ Sample Answers:
- 頼んででも、一度彼に会いたい。
- 疲れていても、引っ越しを手伝うよ。
- 走ってでも、間に合うようにする。
📚 Related Grammar
- ～てでも: Even if I have to (emphasis on action)
- ～ても: Even though (more neutral)
- ～てはならない: Must not
🧠 Summary
- Meaning: Even if I have to… / Even if it means…
- Level: JLPT N2/N1
- Form: Verb (て-form) + でも
- Use: Expressing strong will, determination, or desperation
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I’m a software engineer based in Japan, with experience in developing web and mobile applications. I’m passionate about technology, especially in DevOps, AI, and app development using platforms like AWS, Flutter, and Node.js. My goal is to build a website that shares knowledge about the Japanese language and IT, helping everyone learn and grow more easily in the digital era.
