〜はともかく
Formation
Meaning
Putting aside a certain matter for now, or regardless of a certain aspect, focused on another more important point. Used when the speaker wants to change the subject or emphasize a different quality.
Note
Used to set aside one aspect (often less important) to focus on another more critical point. Similar to 'leaving aside' or 'not to mention'.
Examples
値段はともかく、味は最高だ。
Setting aside the price, the taste is the best.
デザインはともかく、使い勝手が悪い。
Setting aside the design, it's not very user-friendly.
結果はともかく、努力したことが大切だ。
Regardless of the result, the fact that you put in the effort is important.
性格はともかく、仕事はできる人だ。
Regardless of his personality, he is someone who can do his job well.
やるかやらないかはともかく、一度相談してみよう。
Whether or not we'll do it is one thing, but let's try consulting first.
料理の腕はともかくとして、彼の熱意は認めたい。
Setting aside his cooking skills, I want to acknowledge his enthusiasm.
出席するかどうかはともかく、招待状だけは送っておこう。
Whether you attend or not is secondary; let's at least send the invitation.
外見はともかく、中身はとても優しい人だ。
Setting aside his appearance, he is a very kind person inside.