Translation guide
The English word "scenario" can refer to a possible sequence of events, a written outline for a film or play, or a hypothetical situation. This guide helps learners choose the most natural Japanese expression for each meaning.
最悪のシナリオ
worst-case scenario
シナリオプランニング
scenario planning
To talk about a possible way that events could unfold, often in planning, risk assessment, or hypothetical discussions.
The most direct and common translation. Used widely in business, news, and everyday conversation for hypothetical or planned sequences of events.
最悪のシナリオを想定しておく必要がある。
We need to prepare for the worst-case scenario.
いくつかのシナリオを検討した。
We considered several scenarios.
Often used interchangeably with シナリオ in business contexts, especially when referring to specific cases or instances.
最悪のケースでは、プロジェクトは中止になる。
In the worst-case scenario, the project will be canceled.
Means "situation" or "circumstances." Can be used when "scenario" refers to a general state of affairs rather than a specific sequence.
この状況では、別の対応が必要だ。
In this scenario, a different response is needed.
Means "assumption" or "hypothesis." Used in technical or planning contexts to describe a scenario as a set of assumptions.
この想定に基づいて計画を立てよう。
Let's make a plan based on this scenario.
To refer to the script or screenplay of a dramatic work.
The standard term for a screenplay or script for a film, play, or TV drama.
彼はその映画の脚本を書いた。
He wrote the scenario for that movie.
Also used for a film or drama script, though 脚本 is more common in professional contexts. シナリオ can sound slightly more casual or general.
Refers specifically to a script used by actors, containing dialogue and stage directions. Often used for theater or TV shows.
To present a made-up situation for analysis, role-play, or educational purposes.
Again the most versatile term. Used in training, simulations, and thought experiments.
研修では、実際のシナリオを使って練習します。
In the training, we practice using real-life scenarios.
Literally "a hypothetical story." Used in casual conversation to introduce a what-if scenario.
仮定の話だけど、もし宝くじが当たったらどうする？
Just a hypothetical scenario, but what would you do if you won the lottery?
While シナリオ is widely understood, using it for trivial daily situations can sound overly dramatic or businesslike. For simple situations, 場合 (ばあい, "case") or 状況 (じょうきょう, "situation") may be more natural.
雨が降った場合、ピクニックは中止です。
In the scenario that it rains, the picnic will be canceled. (More natural than シナリオ here)
脚本 (きゃくほん) is the standard term in the film and TV industry. シナリオ is also used but can imply a more detailed, literary script, sometimes including camera directions. In casual conversation, they are often interchangeable.
プロジェクトが失敗するシナリオを想像してみよう。
Let's imagine a scenario where the project fails.
その映画の脚本は有名な作家によって書かれた。
The movie's scenario was written by a famous author.
このシナリオはよく書けている。
This scenario is well-written.
俳優たちは台本を読み合わせた。
The actors read through the scenario together.
Borrowed from English "case study." Used in academic or business training to analyze a specific scenario.
このケーススタディーを分析してください。
Please analyze this scenario.