Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Perhaps" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "perhaps", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ひょっとすると
ひょっとすると (hyottosuru to)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
蓋し
けだし (kedashi)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "perhaps" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ひょっとすると and 蓋し.
In Japanese, ひょっとすると (ひょっとすると (hyottosuru to)) is typically associated with "perhaps, possibly, maybe, by any chance" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Adverbial phrase. Expresses a possibility or a slight chance that something might happen or be true. Similar to 「もしかしたら」 but can sometimes imply a more unexpected or remote possibility. Often followed by 「かもしれない」..
On the other hand, 蓋し (けだし (kedashi)) maps to "perhaps, probably; indeed, surely (often archaic or literary)" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents A somewhat archaic or formal adverb used to express conjecture or strong assertion. Often found in written or literary contexts.. A literal translation of "perhaps" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "ひょっとすると"
ひょっとすると、明日は雪が降るかもしれない。
It might snow tomorrow, possibly.
Bilingual Context for "蓋し"
蓋し、それは最善の選択であっただろう。
Perhaps, that was the best choice.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、明日は雪が降るかもしれない。" (Meaning: "It might snow tomorrow, possibly.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ひょっとすると" fits here because it means "perhaps, possibly, maybe, by any chance" in the context of: "It might snow tomorrow, possibly.". "蓋し" represents "perhaps, probably; indeed, surely (often archaic or literary)".