Translation guide
Describes a tendency to expect the worst or focus on negative outcomes. Japanese has several common adjectives and phrases, with 悲観的 (hikanteki) being the most direct equivalent, but more natural expressions often use verbs or set phrases.
To describe a person, view, or attitude that is generally pessimistic.
The most direct translation. A な-adjective meaning 'pessimistic'. Commonly used in formal and written contexts, but also in everyday speech.
He is pessimistic about the future.
To take a pessimistic view.
Verb phrase using 悲観する (to be pessimistic). Often used with について (about) or を (regarding).
He is pessimistic about his own future.
Literally 'to think in a bad direction'. A natural, everyday way to say someone is being pessimistic or assuming the worst.
He always thinks the worst.
Loanword from English 'negative'. Often used to describe a person's personality or thinking style. More casual than 悲観的.
He is a negative/pessimistic person.
Literally 'backward-facing'. Used to describe a pessimistic or negative attitude, often in contrast to 前向き (forward-looking, positive).
A pessimistic way of thinking is not good.
To express pessimism regarding a particular event, plan, or possibility.
A very common pattern meaning 'I think ~ is difficult', implying pessimism about success. Replace 〜 with the thing you are pessimistic about.
I think this plan will be difficult (implying pessimism).
Attached to verb stems to mean 'it doesn't look like ~ will happen'. Expresses a pessimistic prediction.
It doesn't look like the rain will stop.
Literally 'the prospect is thin'. A slightly formal phrase meaning there is little hope or chance.
The chances of success are slim.
A more casual, abbreviated form of 見込みが薄い, meaning 'little hope'. Often used in spoken language.
悲観的 is more formal and often used in written analysis or serious discussion. ネガティブ is a casual loanword commonly used to describe someone's personality or mood. In everyday conversation, ネガティブ is very common, but 悲観的 is preferred in formal contexts.
He has a pessimistic personality. (formal)
That person is too negative. (casual)
The direct loanword ペシミスティック exists but is very rare and sounds unnatural. Use 悲観的 or ネガティブ instead.
彼が来そうにない。
It doesn't look like he will come.
それは望み薄だね。
That's a long shot, isn't it? (lit. That has little hope.)