Understanding 说什么/怎么（着）也得X

The expressions 说什么 (shuō shénme) and 怎么（着）也得 (zěnme (zhuó) yě děi) are used in Chinese to emphasize the necessity or obligation of an action, often in situations where the speaker feels strongly about the need to do something.

1. 说什么也得X: This phrase translates to "no matter what, (one) must X." It is used to express that regardless of any objections or circumstances, the action must be taken. For example:

2. 他生病了，我说什么也得去看看他。 (Tā shēngbìng le, wǒ shuō shénme yě děi qù kàn kàn tā.) - "He is sick; no matter what, I must go see him."

3. 怎么（着）也得X: This phrase conveys a similar meaning, translating to "no matter how, (one) must X." It emphasizes that the action is essential, regardless of the situation. For example:

4. 这么重要的活动，你怎么也得来一下儿。 (Zhème zhòngyào de huódòng, nǐ zěnme yě děi lái yīxiàr.) - "For such an important event, you must come, no matter what."

5. Contextual Usage: The phrases can also be used in urgent situations, as seen in:

6. 没时间了，说什么也得走了。 (Méi shíjiān le, shuō shénme yě děi zǒu le.) - "There’s no time left; no matter what, we have to leave."

In summary, both expressions serve to underline the importance of an action that must be taken, regardless of any potential objections or circumstances. They are commonly used in conversational Chinese to express urgency or obligation.