Translation guide
An archaic or poetic way to say 'perhaps' or 'by chance'. In modern Japanese, use standard words for 'maybe' or 'possibly'.
Expressing possibility or uncertainty in a neutral or slightly formal way.
The most common and neutral word for 'maybe' or 'probably'. Suitable for everyday conversation.
多分、明日は雨が降るでしょう。
Perchance it will rain tomorrow.
Expresses a lower probability or a more tentative possibility, similar to 'perchance' or 'it might be that'.
Suggests a slight chance or an unexpected possibility. More colloquial and less formal.
Describing something that occurs accidentally or without planning.
Means 'by chance' or 'accidentally'. Used when something happens unexpectedly.
偶然に、駅で旧友に会った。
Perchance I met an old friend at the station.
'Perchance' is an archaic or poetic word in English. In modern Japanese, there is no direct equivalent with the same old-fashioned feel. Use standard words for 'maybe' or 'by chance' instead.
多分行きます。
Perchance I will go. (Use 多分 for natural modern Japanese.)
Perchance he will not come.
Perchance I might win the lottery.
Casual way to say 'by chance' or 'coincidentally'. Common in spoken Japanese.
たまたま通りかかっただけです。
I just happened to be passing by, perchance.