Processing keyword: ～にかかわらず (〜ni kakawarazu)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～にかかわらず (〜ni kakawarazu)

～にかかわらず (〜ni kakawarazu)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～にかかわらず (ni kakawarazu) is a useful expression in Japanese that translates to "regardless of" or "irrespective of" in English. It is used to indicate that something is true or will happen regardless of certain conditions or factors.

2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ～にかかわらず: Regardless of ～; No matter ～; Despite ～

Structure

The structure of ～にかかわらず is as follows:

Formation Diagram

[Word/Clause] + にかかわらず

• [Word/Clause] can be a noun, verb, or adjective indicating the factor that does not affect the outcome.

3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with ～に関係なく (ni kankei naku)

• ～に関係なく also means "regardless of" or "without relation to."
• Both expressions are similar, but ～にかかわらず is slightly more formal and often used in written language.
• Difference: ～にかかわらず can sometimes carry a nuance of "despite," whereas ～に関係なく is more about lacking a relationship or connection.

4. Examples in Context

Example Sentences

1. 天候にかかわらず、明日試合を行います。
   • Tenkō ni kakawarazu, ashita shiai o okonaimasu.
   • Translation: "We will hold the match tomorrow regardless of the weather."
2. 参加するしないにかかわらず、連絡してください。
   • Sanka suru shinai ni kakawarazu, renraku shite kudasai.
   • Translation: "Please contact us whether you will participate or not."
3. 年齢にかかわらず、このイベントに参加できます。
   • Nenrei ni kakawarazu, kono ibento ni sanka dekimasu.
   • Translation: "You can participate in this event regardless of age."
4. 性別にかかわらず、応募できます。
   • Seibetsu ni kakawarazu, ōbo dekimasu.
   • Translation: "Applications are open regardless of gender."
5. 結果がどうであるにかかわらず、全力を尽くします。
   • Kekka ga dō de aru ni kakawarazu, zenryoku o tsukushimasu.
   • Translation: "I will do my best regardless of the outcome."

5. Cultural Notes

Levels of Politeness

• ～にかかわらず is a formal expression often used in written Japanese, official announcements, and formal speeches.
• It might not be commonly used in casual spoken language among friends.

Idiomatic Expressions

• 老若男女にかかわらず (Rōnyaku nan'nyo ni kakawarazu): "Regardless of age or gender."

6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Error Analysis

• Mistake: Misplacing the expression in the sentence.
  • Incorrect: にかかわらず天候、試合を行います。
  • Correct: 天候にかかわらず、試合を行います。
• Mistake: Using it with inappropriate verb forms.
  • Incorrect: 行くか行かないかにかかわらず
  • Tip: Use the plain form of the verb or noun directly before にかかわらず.

Learning Strategies

• Mnemonic Device: Think of "関わる" (kakawaru) meaning "to be involved." So, "にかかわらず" implies "without being involved with ～," hence "regardless of ～."
• Tip: Associate にかかわらず with formal announcements to remember its usage context.

7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• ～にかかわらず is used to express "regardless of ～."
• It is a formal expression commonly used in written and formal spoken Japanese.
• The structure typically involves a noun, verb, or adjective placed before にかかわらず.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. Translate the following sentence:
   • 結果にかかわらず、プロセスが大切です。
   • Answer: "The process is important regardless of the result."
2. Fill in the blank with the correct grammar point:
   • 天気_______、出発します。
   • Answer: 天気*にかかわらず、出発します。*
3. True or False: ～にかかわらず is commonly used in casual conversations among friends.
   • Answer: False

By understanding and practicing ～にかかわらず, you can express "regardless of" conditions in Japanese, enhancing the formality and precision of your language skills.