Translation guide
Expresses high probability or the most probable outcome. In Japanese, this is often conveyed through adverbs, sentence-ending expressions, or conditional forms rather than a single direct translation.
To say that something is very probable or almost certain to happen or be true.
Common adverb meaning 'probably' or 'most likely'. Used in everyday conversation. Often paired with だろう/でしょう.
It will most likely rain tomorrow.
More formal than 多分, meaning 'probably' or 'in all likelihood'. Suitable for written or formal speech.
Pattern meaning 'must be' or 'no doubt'. Expresses strong conviction. Attach to plain form of verb/adjective/noun.
He will most likely succeed.
Pattern meaning 'should be' or 'ought to be' based on reasoning. Indicates logical expectation.
She should have arrived by now. (most likely has)
To indicate that something is the most likely choice or scenario compared to others.
Phrase meaning 'the most likely' or 'the most probable'. Used as an adjective modifying a noun.
That's the most likely outcome.
Literally 'the highest possibility'. A common way to say 'most likely' when comparing options.
Pattern: 'the possibility of ~ is the highest'. Insert noun or nominalized phrase before の.
To express 'most likely' in a formal, written, or literary context.
多分 is the default for everyday 'probably'. おそらく is more formal and often used in news or writing. Both are often paired with だろう/でしょう.
It's probably fine. (casual)
There will most likely be no problem. (formal)
Do not directly translate 'most likely' as 最もありそうな in every context. Use adverbs like 多分 or patterns like 〜に違いない for natural Japanese.
He is most likely the culprit.
That's the most likely explanation.
おそらく彼は来ないだろう。
Most likely he won't come.
This scenario is the most likely.
Rain is the most likely.
He is most likely the next president.