Translation guide
The English word 'forecast' is most commonly used for weather predictions, but also for economic or business projections. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on what is being predicted and the context.
To talk about a weather prediction, such as on the news or in daily conversation.
To talk about predictions for the economy, sales, or business trends.
General term for 'prediction' or 'forecast' based on data or analysis. Used for economic indicators, sales, etc.
To express a forecast or prediction in a broad sense, not limited to weather or business.
Works for any data-driven or analytical forecast.
To express the action of making a forecast.
The most common verb pattern for 'to forecast that...'.
予測 is the most objective, data-driven forecast. 予想 includes expectations and is common in financial markets. 見通し is often used for business outlooks and plans.
According to the meteorological agency's forecast, this summer will be hot.
The weather forecast says it will rain tomorrow.
According to the weather forecast, it will be sunny this weekend.
The forecast says it will snow tomorrow.
Forecasting economic growth is difficult.
Make a sales forecast for next year.
Often used for outlook or forecast in business contexts, implying a forward-looking estimate.
They revised their earnings forecast upward.
Common word for 'expectation' or 'forecast', often used in financial contexts (e.g., stock market forecasts).
The earnings exceeded market forecasts.
Demographic forecasts influence policy.
Means 'prophecy' or 'prediction', often with a mystical or non-scientific nuance. Not for weather or business.
the prophecies of Nostradamus
Experts forecast that the economy will recover.
Similar to 予測する, but slightly more subjective or expectation-based.
Analysts forecast an interest rate hike next month.
Used in business or official forecasts, often for numerical estimates.
The government forecasts 2% growth this year.
The result fell short of market forecasts.
The company's business forecast is bright.
予報 is almost exclusively used for weather (天気予報). Using it for economic or other forecasts sounds unnatural.
彼らは売上が10%増加すると予測している。
They forecast a 10% increase in sales.