Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Prediction" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "prediction", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
予測
よそく (yosoku)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
予断
よだん (yodan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "prediction" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 予測 and 予断.
In Japanese, 予測 (よそく (yosoku)) is typically associated with "prediction, forecast" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to estimating future events or conditions based on current information. Often used for weather, economic trends, or outcomes. Can be used as a する-verb.
On the other hand, 予断 (よだん (yodan)) maps to "prediction, prejudgment, premature conclusion" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Often used in negative contexts like '予断を許さない'. A literal translation of "prediction" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "予測"
明日の天気を予測するのは難しい。
It's difficult to predict tomorrow's weather.
Bilingual Context for "予断"
事故の状況はまだ予断を許さない。
The situation of the accident is still unpredictable.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "明日の天気を ＿＿＿ するのは難しい。" (Meaning: "It's difficult to predict tomorrow's weather.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "予測" fits here because it means "prediction, forecast" in the context of: "It's difficult to predict tomorrow's weather.". "予断" represents "prediction, prejudgment, premature conclusion".