なんとか

Alternative writings: 何とか
JLPT:N3
Frequency:
1

Something or someone (something-or-other); used to refer vaguely to an unspecified thing or person.

ExpressionUsually Kana

Examples

昨日、なんとかさんという方から電話がありました。

Yesterday someone called saying they were 'so-and-so'.

なんとか言ってその場をしのいだ。

I said something or other to get by in that situation.

名前はなんとか覚えているが、漢字は思い出せない。

I remember the name somehow, but I can't recall the kanji.

2

Somehow; in one way or another — indicating effort to manage or that things will work out; often used as 'nantoka shite' to request or express determination.

AdverbIrregular VerbUsually Kana

Examples

締め切りになんとか間に合った。

I somehow made the deadline.

なんとかしてこの問題を解決したい。

I want to do whatever it takes to solve this problem.

お金が足りないが、なんとかなるだろう。

We lack money, but we'll manage somehow.

Word Relationships