no matter
What is the opposite of no matter? Here is what we hold, with its meaning and related words.
Conjunction — Used before how, what, where, when or who to say that something stays true whatever the circumstances.
How to use no matter
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
no matter what
no matter how
no matter where
no matter who
The conjunction is neutral and very common; the standalone 'no matter' meaning 'never mind' sounds formal or old-fashioned.
Etymology
Shortened from earlier it makes no matter, it is no matter.
Full origin of no matter →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between no matter and regardless?
Regardless is followed by 'of' and a noun: regardless of the cost. No matter is followed by a question word and a clause: no matter what it costs. They express the same idea but attach to different structures.
Is it no matter what or no matter of what?
No matter what. The 'of' belongs with regardless and irrespective, not with no matter.
Can no matter start a sentence?
Yes. 'No matter how late it is, ring me' is standard; the main clause follows the comma.
