Structure
どうせ + Phrase
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About どうせ
どうせ is an adverb used in Japanese to express that some particular state or condition of (A) will result in (B). Usually, there is no way to stop (B) from happening, and it is considered a natural consequence of (A). In English, this translates closely with phrases like 'at any rate', or 'in any case'.
Being an adverb, どうせ most often appears at the beginning of sentences, before going on to describe the inevitable situation.
どうせ often carries the nuance of frustration or resignation that (A) cannot be changed. In these cases, it is often paired with other grammar structures such as なら or だから. This shows that if (A) cannot be changed, then (B) is a good idea. This usage translates similarly to 'if (A), you might as well (B)'.
Fun-fact
This grammar structure comes from a combination of どう 'how', and the imperative form of する, せよ. In this way, it is just emphasizing that no matter 'how (A) is done', the result cannot be changed.
Synonyms
Examples
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どうせダイアモンドなんて買ってもらえない。
I have no doubt I won't be able to get them to buy me diamonds.
どうせ「ウドの大木だ」と悪口を言われるのがオチだ。
I have no doubt that it will just end with me being called 'big and useless'.
どうせ通訳はつけてもらえない。自力で頑張るしかない。
In any case, I can't have it interpreted. I have no choice but to try my best.
私がどう謝っても、どうせ彼は許すつもりはないだろう。
No matter how much I apologize, I have no doubt that he won't forgive me.
どうせご飯を炊かないといけないのだから、あなたの分も炊きますよ。
In any case, since I have to cook rice, I will cook your share too.
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A Dictionary of Intermediate Japanese Grammar
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