Translation guide
The English verb 'predict' is used to say what you think will happen in the future. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 予測する (yosoku suru), but other expressions like 予想する (yosou suru) and 見通し (mitooshi) are used depending on whether the prediction is based on data, intuition, or a general outlook. This guide covers the main ways to express prediction naturally.
To say what will happen in the future based on evidence, data, or logical reasoning.
The most direct and common translation for 'predict' when based on data, trends, or analysis. Used in scientific, economic, and everyday contexts.
Experts are predicting economic growth.
The weather forecast predicted rain tomorrow.
Similar to 予測する, but often implies a more subjective guess or expectation, not necessarily based on hard data. Common in sports, elections, and personal predictions.
He predicted the outcome of the match.
Literally 'to see through', used for predicting or foreseeing future developments, often in business or long-term planning. More formal.
To refer to a prediction as a statement about the future, often in formal or business contexts.
The noun form of 予測する. Used for forecasts, projections, and predictions based on data.
To express a gut feeling or intuitive prediction about the future.
A very common phrase meaning 'I have a feeling that...' or 'I predict that...' based on intuition. Attach to a clause in plain form.
To predict in academic, scientific, or highly formal contexts.
To prophesy or predict, often with a connotation of divine or authoritative foresight. Used for prophecies, not data-driven forecasts.
予測 (yosoku) is for data-driven, objective predictions. 予想 (yosou) is for subjective guesses or expectations. 見通し (mitooshi) is for outlooks or prospects, often in business. Use 予測 for scientific forecasts, 予想 for personal predictions, and 見通し for future plans or economic outlooks.
The weather agency predicted the typhoon's path. (data-driven)
Can you predict the future?
彼は市場の動向を見通している。
He predicts market trends.
This prediction is based on past data.
Noun form of 予想する. Often used for expectations or conjectures, like election predictions or sports picks.
Election predictions are difficult.
Outlook or prospect; a prediction about how a situation will develop. Common in business and economic contexts.
The sales forecast for next year is bright.
I predict it will rain tomorrow. (I have a feeling it will rain.)
I predict he won't come.
The volitional form used for conjecture. 'Probably will...' or 'I think it will...'. Less formal than 予測する, more like a guess.
I predict it will be sunny tomorrow. (Probably sunny.)
Nostradamus predicted the future.
To foresee or have precognition. Often used in paranormal contexts or for predicting disasters before they happen.
She claims to have predicted the earthquake.
I predicted he would win. (subjective guess)
The company's earnings outlook is favorable.
In everyday conversation, 予測する can sound stiff. Use ～ような気がする or ～だろう for casual predictions. Reserve 予測する for situations where you have some basis or data.
I have a feeling it'll rain tomorrow. (natural casual)
It's hard to predict what will happen.