Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Prospect" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "prospect", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
見込み
みこみ (mikomi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
見通し
みとおし (mitōshi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "prospect" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 見込み and 見通し.
In Japanese, 見込み (みこみ (mikomi)) is typically associated with "prospect, expectation, estimate, likelihood" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents 将来の可能性や予測、特にビジネスや計画において使われます。.
On the other hand, 見通し (みとおし (mitōshi)) maps to "prospect, outlook, forecast, visibility" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Can refer to a clear view. A literal translation of "prospect" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "見込み"
来年の売上は大幅な増加が見込みです。
Sales for next year are expected to increase significantly.
Bilingual Context for "見通し"
今年の経済の見通しは明るい。
The economic outlook for this year is bright.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "来年の売上は大幅な増加が ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "Sales for next year are expected to increase significantly.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "見込み" fits here because it means "prospect, expectation, estimate, likelihood" in the context of: "Sales for next year are expected to increase significantly.". "見通し" represents "prospect, outlook, forecast, visibility".