Translation guide
The English word 'miscalculation' can refer to an error in mathematical calculation or a mistake in judgment or planning. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both senses, from casual spoken phrases to formal written terms.
To express that someone made a mistake in assessing a situation, predicting an outcome, or planning something, leading to an unexpected or undesirable result.
I miscalculated the demand.
He miscalculated how much preparation he needed for the exam.
Literally 'miscalculation', used for both numerical errors and errors in judgment. Common in news and business contexts.
That was the biggest miscalculation.
There was a miscalculation in his strategy.
Means 'my reading (of the situation) was off'. Used when a prediction or expectation turns out wrong. Common in business and everyday talk.
I misread the market.
Can mean a literal calculation error or a figurative miscalculation in plans. Slightly more concrete than 誤算.
That was a big miscalculation.
A more formal term for an error in estimation or expectation, often used in business reports.
There was a miscalculation in the sales forecast.
To refer to a mistake made when performing arithmetic or numerical calculations.
The most common and natural way to say a calculation mistake in everyday contexts.
I got the answer wrong because of a miscalculation.
A miscalculation was found in the accounting.
Also used for mathematical errors, but often carries a nuance of a more consequential mistake in official or technical contexts.
誤算 is the most versatile and can be used for both judgment and math errors, often in formal writing. 計算ミス is the most common for everyday math mistakes. 計算違い is slightly more formal than 計算ミス but less common in casual speech. For judgment errors, 見通しが甘かった is a very natural spoken phrase.
I made a calculation error.
A miscalculation occurred.
The English word 'miscalculation' is often used figuratively. In Japanese, directly translating it as 誤算 or 計算違い may sound too literal or stiff in casual conversation. Use phrases like 見通しが甘かった or 読みが外れた for natural expression.
I miscalculated. (natural spoken)
His miscalculation cost the company millions.
I made a miscalculation in the budget.
It was a serious miscalculation to ignore the warning signs.
予算に誤算があった。
There was a miscalculation in the budget.
Directly means 'calculation difference/mistake'. Slightly more formal than 計算ミス but still common.
Correct a miscalculation.