ISORI

〜てでも

JLPT N2:

even if I have to

Expresses strong resolve to reach a goal, even by taking an extreme, undesirable or normally avoided action.

How to form it

  • Add でも to the て-form: 徹夜(てつや)してでも.
  • The clause after it states the goal that makes the extreme means worthwhile.

Examples

徹夜(てつや)してでも今日中(きょうじゅう)に仕上(しあ)げる。

I will finish it today even if I have to stay up all night.

遠回(とおまわ)りしてでも安全(あんぜん)な道(みち)を選(えら)びたい。

I want to choose the safe route even if it means taking a detour.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing it with noun + でも for giving an example.
  • Leaving out the goal that justifies the extreme action.

Similar meaning

  • 〜てもeven if

    ても concedes a condition; てでも presents X as an extreme means chosen to achieve Y.