とも - Grammar Discussion

even if
no matter

Structure

  • Verb[よう] + とも
  • Verb[なく] + とも
  • なAdj + であろう + とも
  • いAdj[く/かろう] + とも

:warning: 少なくとも is a very common example of this construction which is also used in spoken Japanese.

[used in written Japanese・often appears together with WH words]

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Can someone explain the difference in usage between this form and つつも? Thank you!

In this test sentence:

誰に憎まれようとも、使命を果たさないわけにはいきません。
Even if everyone hates it, it is an obligation we must fulfill.

Wouldn’t here 誰に imply someone (no matter who), and 誰にも be needed to mean everyone?

Thank you

How can I tell the difference between these two grammar points