What it means
どうせ is an adverb meaning “anyway,” “in any case,” or “no matter what.” It is placed before a clause and often shows that the speaker considers an outcome unavoidable, or views an action as pointless unless it is done in a certain way. It commonly introduces a resigned conclusion, a suggestion, or a decision, as in どうせ〜なら, meaning “if it is going to be the case anyway, then…”.
Usage note
どうせ often carries a dismissive, resigned, or pessimistic nuance rather than a neutral meaning of “anyhow.” Use it carefully when the speaker does not want to sound discouraging. The word itself does not change for politeness; the following clause changes instead.
How to use it
どうせ雨が降るなら、傘を持っていきましょう。
If it is going to rain anyway, let’s take an umbrella.
どうせ雨が降るなら、傘を持っていこう。
If it is going to rain anyway, let’s take an umbrella.
Example sentences
どうせ参加するなら、地域の清掃活動に役立つ服を着て行こう。
If we are going to participate anyway, let us wear clothes that will be useful for the community cleanup activity.
どうせ買い替えるなら、長く使える掃除機を選びたい。
Since I am going to replace it anyway, I want to choose a vacuum cleaner that can be used for a long time.
どうせ締