Meaning and Usage
"必ず" (かならず) is an adverb meaning "surely," "certainly," or "without fail." It expresses a strong certainty or obligation that something will or must happen. It is often used to emphasize that an action is guaranteed or required.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see "必ず" in instructions, promises, or when giving advice to stress the importance of doing something. It can appear in both formal and informal contexts but tends to carry a serious tone.
Collocations and Patterns
- 必ず〜する: to definitely do something
- 必ず守る: to definitely keep (a promise, rule)
- 必ず〜てください: polite request to be sure to do something
Usage Tips
When using "必ず," the speaker implies a strong expectation or requirement. It is stronger than just "たぶん" (probably) or "きっと" (surely) because it indicates no doubt or exception.
A common learner mistake is confusing "必ず" with "いつも" (always). "必ず" stresses certainty or obligation in a specific situation, while "いつも" means something happens habitually or regularly.
Use "必ず" when you want to emphasize that something must happen or be done without fail.