Meaning and Usage
The adverb '아무래도' is used to express a strong sense of inevitability or a conclusion drawn after considering various factors. It often translates to 'after all,' 'no matter what,' or 'it seems like' in English. It conveys the speaker's judgment or feeling that something is likely or unavoidable.
Common Contexts
'아무래도' is frequently used when making predictions, expressing doubts, or concluding something based on circumstances. It can soften a statement by implying some uncertainty but still leaning toward a particular conclusion.
Collocations and Patterns
- 아무래도 + verb/adjective: to express a likely outcome or feeling (e.g., 아무래도 늦을 것 같아요 - It seems I will be late after all).
- 아무래도 + negative verb: to express doubt or inability (e.g., 아무래도 안 될 것 같아요 - I don't think it will work no matter what).
Register and Politeness
'아무래도' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is common in spoken Korean and writing.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '아무래도' with '아무거나' (anything) or '아무도' (no one). Remember, '아무래도' relates to inevitability or conclusion, not to indefinite pronouns.