ともあれ

[In any case; at any rate; be that as it may]

Connection: Used independently or after a clause

Usage: A formal expression used to set aside previous discussion or concerns and move on to the main point or conclusion. Functions as a transitional phrase meaning "regardless of all that" or "anyway." Often used to bring the conversation back to what matters most.

Variations:

• ともあれ (standard form)
• ともあろう (attributive: ともあろう人が = someone who should know better)

Examples:

ともあれ、まずは安全を確認しましょう。(In any case, let's first confirm safety.)

結果はどうであれ、ともあれ全力を尽くした。(Whatever the result, at any rate I gave it my all.)

問題は山積みだが、ともあれ第一歩を踏み出すことが大切だ。(Problems are piling up, but in any case, taking the first step is important.)