見通し
Meanings
unobstructed view; visibility; vista
Physical sense: how far or clearly one can see, often in phrases such as 見通しがいい and 見通しが悪い.
This lookout has a clear view all the way to the sea.
The road visibility is poor because of the thick fog.
Used for an expected future situation or prediction, especially in news, business, planning, weather, and schedules. Common collocations include 見通しが立つ, 見通しは明るい, and 見通しは厳しい.
The economic outlook for next year is bright.
There is still no clear prospect of when the construction will finish.
Refers to a person's ability to see through a situation or anticipate what will happen. This use is often seen in expressions like 見通しが甘い or 見通しの利く.
Her insight was sharp, and she quickly spotted the problem.
He is a far-sighted manager.
Usage patterns
- 〈場所〉は見通しがいいthe view from a place is clear and unobstructed
This road has good visibility, so it's easy to drive on.
- 〈場所〉は見通しが悪いvisibility at a place is poor
Visibility at this intersection is poor, making it dangerous.
- 〈事〉の見通しは明るいthe outlook for something is bright/positive
The economic outlook for next year is bright.
- 〈事〉の見通しは厳しいthe outlook for something is grim/difficult
It was announced that the outlook for earnings is grim.
- 見通しが甘いone's predictions or foresight are overly optimistic
It seems his predictions were too optimistic.
- 見通しの利く〈人〉a person with sharp foresight or good judgment
He is known as a manager with sharp foresight.
Expressions
- 見通しが立つto have a prospect in sight; to be able to foresee