Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Perhaps" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "perhaps", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
恐らく
おそらく (osoraku)
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 恐らく and 蓋し.
In Japanese, 恐らく (おそらく (osoraku)) is typically associated with "perhaps, probably, maybe" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Indicates a high probability or likelihood. It's similar to 「たぶん.
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 "恐らく"
明日は恐らく雨が降るだろう。
It will probably rain tomorrow.
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 ___ 雨が降るだろう。" (Meaning: "It will probably rain tomorrow.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "恐らく" fits here because it means "perhaps, probably, maybe" in the context of: "It will probably rain tomorrow.". "蓋し" represents "perhaps, probably; indeed, surely (often archaic or literary)".