Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'prediction' depends on whether you are making a forecast, a guess, stating a scheduled event, or using a set phrase. The most common way is using 予想 (yosou) for general predictions, but other words like 予測 (yosoku) for data-driven forecasts and 予言 (yogen) for prophecies are also important.
Expressing what you think will happen in the future, based on intuition, common sense, or some evidence.
The most common and versatile word for 'prediction' or 'expectation'. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
明日の天気を予想するのは難しい。
It's difficult to predict tomorrow's weather.
彼の予想は当たった。
His prediction came true.
Often used for predictions based on data, analysis, or scientific methods. Slightly more formal than 予想.
Refers to an outlook or forecast, often used in business or planning contexts. Implies a reasoned estimate.
Specifically referring to official or systematic forecasts, like weather or economic forecasts.
Primarily used for weather forecasts. Also used in other official forecasts like earthquake predictions.
A prediction with a supernatural, mystical, or religious connotation.
Refers to a prophecy, often by a prophet or fortune-teller. Can also be used for bold predictions about the future.
When 'prediction' refers to something that is expected to happen because it is planned or scheduled.
Means 'plan' or 'schedule'. Used when the outcome is intended or arranged, not just guessed.
Expressing a less certain prediction, more like a guess or supposition.
The most common way to say 'I think it will...' or 'It will probably...'. だろう is plain, でしょう is polite.
明日は晴れるだろう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
予想 is the most general and can be used for personal expectations. 予測 is more analytical and data-driven. 予報 is specifically for official forecasts, especially weather.
Predict economic trends.
来年の売り上げの見通しは明るい。
The sales forecast for next year is bright.
天気予報によると、明日は雨だ。
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
Used for data-driven forecasts in fields like economics, population, or technology.
人口予測は難しい。
Population prediction is difficult.
ノストラダムスの予言は有名だ。
Nostradamus's prophecies are famous.
Fortune-telling or divination. The prediction itself can be called 占いの結果 (the result of fortune-telling).
彼女は占いで将来を予言した。
She predicted the future through fortune-telling.
出発は午後3時の予定です。
Departure is scheduled for 3 PM.
彼は来ないでしょう。
He probably won't come.
Expresses possibility, 'might' or 'may'. Less certain than だろう.
雨が降るかもしれない。
It might rain.
天気予報を見る。
Check the weather forecast.
予想 is a guess about something you don't control. 予定 is a plan or schedule that you or someone else has decided. Saying 明日雨の予定です is unnatural; use 予想 or 予報.
✕ 明日雨の予定です。
(unnatural) It is scheduled to rain tomorrow.
○ 明日雨の予報です。
The forecast says it will rain tomorrow.
未来を予測するのは難しい。
It's hard to predict the future.