Translation guide
The English word 'prospect' covers several distinct meanings: a future possibility or chance, the act of searching for something (especially minerals), a view or scene, and a potential customer or candidate. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To talk about something that might happen in the future, especially a positive opportunity or likelihood.
The most common and versatile word for 'prospect' in the sense of likelihood, hope, or expectation. Used in business and daily life.
There is little prospect of success.
There is a prospect of rain tomorrow.
Means 'possibility' and can be used for prospects, but is more neutral and less hopeful than 見込み.
The prospect of war is low.
Refers to a future outlook or vista, often used in formal contexts like economic prospects.
The economic prospects are bright.
Means 'future potential' or 'promise', often used for people, companies, or technologies.
He has good prospects.
To refer to the activity of looking for valuable minerals, oil, etc.
To describe a wide view or panorama, often from a high place.
Common word for a view or scene. Can be used for prospects in the sense of a vista.
The prospect from the mountaintop is wonderful.
Means 'scenery' or 'landscape', often used for natural views.
Also means 'view' or 'vista', but more formal and often used in compounds like 展望台 (observation deck).
To refer to a person who might become a customer, client, or suitable candidate.
The katakana word プロスペクト is rarely used in Japanese and sounds unnatural. Use the appropriate Japanese word based on the meaning.
They are prospecting for oil.
The prospect from the window is nice.
ここからの展望は最高だ。
The prospect from here is superb.
彼は大統領候補者だ。
He is a presidential prospect.