Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Estimate" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "estimate", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
見込む
みこむ (mikomu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見積もる
みつもる (mitsumoru)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "estimate" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見込む and 見積もる.
In Japanese, 見込む (みこむ (mikomu)) is typically associated with "to estimate, to expect, to anticipate, to take into account" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 将来の状況や数値などを予測したり、期待したりすることを表す他動詞です。/ A transitive verb meaning to predict or expect future situations or numerical values, or to take them into account..
On the other hand, 見積もる (みつもる (mitsumoru)) maps to "to estimate, to quote (a price)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Calculating an approximate value, cost, time, or quantity. Often used in business contexts for giving a quote.. A literal translation of "estimate" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "見込む"
今回のイベントでは、1万人以上の来場者を見込んでいる。
We are expecting over 10,000 visitors for this event.
Bilingual Context for "見積もる"
引っ越し費用を見積もってもらった。
I had them estimate the moving costs.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "今回のイベントでは、1万人以上の来場者を見込んでいる。" (Meaning: "We are expecting over 10,000 visitors for this event.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "見込む" fits here because it means "to estimate, to expect, to anticipate, to take into account" in the context of: "We are expecting over 10,000 visitors for this event.". "見積もる" represents "to estimate, to quote (a price)".