Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.

Words Kanji Guides About

おそらくは Japanese meaning | Kotomora

おそらくは

Freq.FrequencyTop 50,000

Meanings

1

adverb

probably; most likely; I'm afraid

usually written using kana alone

Expresses a strong conjecture, often with a nuance of regrettable or negative expectation. Frequently used when predicting an undesirable outcome.

おそらくは雨あめが降ふるだろう。
It will probably rain.
おそらくは彼かれは来こないと思おもう。
I'm afraid he won't come.

Kanji

恐fear, dread, awe

Similar words

たぶん
たぶん is a more casual and general 'probably', while おそらくは is slightly more formal and often implies a negative or regrettable outcome.
きっと
きっと expresses a stronger conviction ('surely') and is often used for positive expectations, unlike おそらくは which leans toward negative predictions.

Etymology

Derived from the adverb おそらく (probably) with the topic particle は added for emphasis. The kanji 恐 (fear) reflects the frequent association with undesirable outcomes.