What it means
あえて is an adverb meaning to deliberately do something despite difficulty, risk, opposition, or a more obvious alternative. It often highlights that the speaker knowingly chooses an unconventional or potentially disadvantageous action. It is commonly placed before a verb phrase and is especially frequent in formal, written, and analytical contexts.
Usage note
あえて〜ない usually means deliberately not doing something, rather than being unable or unwilling to do it. The expression is somewhat formal and should not be used for every ordinary instance of simply choosing not to act.
How to use it
委員会はあえて古い方法を選びます。
The committee deliberately chooses the old method.
委員会はあえて結論を急ぎません。
The committee deliberately does not rush to a conclusion.
委員会はあえて古い方法を選ぶ。
The committee deliberately chooses the old method.
委員会はあえて結論を急がない。
The committee deliberately does not rush to a conclusion.
Example sentences
評価が下がる可能性を承知の上で、彼はあえて計画の問題点を公の場で指摘した。
Knowing that it might lower his evaluation, he dared to point out the problems with the plan in public.
彼女は失敗の責任を問われると知りながら、あえて