Translation guide
The English word "possibility" can refer to a chance that something may happen, a potential option, or an abstract capacity. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 可能性 (kanōsei), but depending on the nuance, other words like 見込み (mikomi) or 余地 (yochi) may be used. This guide covers the main ways to express "possibility" in natural Japanese.
Expressing that there is a possibility of an event occurring, often with a sense of probability or uncertainty.
There's a possibility of rain. · The possibility of failure exists.
The most direct and common translation for "possibility" in the sense of chance or likelihood. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
雨が降る可能性があります。
There is a possibility of rain.
成功する可能性は低い。
The possibility of success is low.
Often used for a positive possibility or prospect, especially in business or formal contexts. Implies a reasonable expectation.
回復の見込みはありますか？
Is there a possibility of recovery?
A formal, somewhat literary term for probability or likelihood. Rare in everyday conversation.
成功の公算は大きい。
The probability of success is high.
Referring to a possible event, outcome, or choice among alternatives.
Also used for a possible option or scenario. Can be pluralized in English but Japanese does not distinguish number.
いくつかの可能性を考えてみましょう。
Let's consider several possibilities.
Literally "option" or "alternative." Used when possibility means a choice among things.
Referring to the inherent ability or potential for something to exist or be done, often in philosophical or general contexts.
Again, 可能性 covers this abstract sense well.
人間には無限の可能性がある。
Humans have infinite possibilities.
Emphasizes latent or hidden potential. More formal and less common.
この技術には大きな潜在的可能性がある。
This technology has great potential possibilities.
Expressing that there is a possibility in the sense of leeway, margin, or opportunity for something to happen.
可能性 is a general term for possibility, neutral in connotation. 見込み implies a positive outlook or expectation, often used in business forecasts or medical prognoses. For example, 成功の可能性 (possibility of success) is neutral, while 成功の見込み (prospect of success) suggests a reasonable chance.
可能性はゼロではない。
The possibility is not zero.
見込みは薄い。
The prospects are slim.
While 可能性 is versatile, in some contexts it can sound stiff or overly literal. For everyday expressions like "Is there any chance...?" or "Maybe...", consider using more natural phrasing such as ～かな？ or ～かもしれない.
明日雨が降るかな？
Is there any possibility of rain tomorrow? (casual)
彼が来る可能性があります。
There is a possibility that he will come.
あらゆる可能性を考慮しなければならない。
We must consider all possibilities.
他にどんな選択肢がありますか？
What other possibilities are there?
成功の可能性はまだある。
There is still a possibility of success.