Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Perhaps" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "perhaps", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
多分
たぶん (tabun)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
恐らく
おそらく (osoraku)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "perhaps" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 多分 and 恐らく.
In Japanese, 多分 (たぶん (tabun)) is typically associated with "perhaps; probably; maybe" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses that the speaker thinks something is likely, but not 100% certain. Often used with a statement of conjecture.
On the other hand, 恐らく (おそらく (osoraku)) maps to "perhaps, probably, maybe" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates a high probability or likelihood. It's similar to 「たぶん. A literal translation of "perhaps" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "多分"
多分、明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
Bilingual Context for "恐らく"
明日は恐らく雨が降るだろう。
It will probably rain tomorrow.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: " ＿＿＿ 、明日は晴れるでしょう。" (Meaning: "It will probably be sunny tomorrow.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "多分" fits here because it means "perhaps; probably; maybe" in the context of: "It will probably be sunny tomorrow.". "恐らく" represents "perhaps, probably, maybe".