Translation guide
The English word 'will' is a modal verb used to express future actions, intentions, promises, and predictions. Japanese does not have a direct equivalent; instead, it uses verb forms, auxiliary verbs, and context to convey similar meanings. This guide covers the most common ways to express 'will' in Japanese, organized by function.
Expressing that something will happen in the future, without strong intention or volition.
The most common way to express a neutral future prediction. だろう is plain, でしょう is polite.
It will rain tomorrow.
He will go to Japan next year.
Literally 'I think that...', often used to soften a prediction about the future.
I think it will be sunny tomorrow.
Used when the future event is scheduled or planned.
The meeting will start at 3 o'clock.
Expressing one's own will or intention to do something.
The standard way to say 'I will...' or 'I intend to...'. The volitional form is created by changing the verb ending: 〜う/よう.
I will get up early tomorrow.
Making a promise or expressing strong determination.
Using 必ず (definitely) with the dictionary form conveys a strong promise or determination.
I will definitely succeed.
Offering to do something or deciding on the spot.
The volitional form plus か is a common way to offer to do something, like 'Shall I...?'.
Shall I open the window?
Describing a habitual or characteristic behavior, often with 'will' in English.
Used to express a general tendency or characteristic behavior.
Expressing that something will not happen or someone refuses to do something.
Means 'there is no need to...' or 'it will not happen that...'.
You will not need to worry.
The polite form 〜ます does not inherently express future tense. It can be present or future depending on context. To clearly indicate future, use patterns like 〜でしょう or 〜つもりだ.
〜つもり indicates a firmer plan or intention, while 〜と思う is softer and more like 'I think I will...'. Use 〜つもり for definite plans and 〜と思う for tentative intentions.
I think I will go to Japan next year.
Expresses a firm intention or plan. Stronger than 〜と思う.
I will go on a diet from tomorrow.
The volitional form alone can express 'let's...' or a spontaneous decision, but is less common for 'I will' without と思う.
I'll help.
Literally 'I swear that...', used for solemn promises.
I swear I will not lie anymore.
Polite offer: 'Shall I...?'.
Shall I help you?
He will often take a walk in the park.
Means 'there are times when...', used for occasional habits.
He will sometimes be late.
Used when someone refuses to do something for you.
He won't tell me.