At the A1 level, you are just starting your Japanese journey. You probably know the word 'tabun' (maybe/probably). 'Osoraku' is a more advanced version of 'tabun.' You don't need to use it yet, but you might hear it on the news or from a teacher. Think of it as a 'polite maybe.' It is used when you are quite sure about something but want to sound professional. For example, if you are talking about the weather, you might hear 'Osoraku ame deshou' (It will probably rain). At this stage, just focus on recognizing the sound 'o-so-ra-ku' and knowing it means 'probably.' It is usually placed at the start of a sentence. Remember that it is much more formal than 'tabun,' so don't use it with your friends yet! If you use it, people will think you are very serious and polite.
At the A2 level, you are beginning to understand different levels of politeness in Japanese. You should know that 'osoraku' is an adverb used for making predictions. It is stronger and more formal than 'tabun.' While 'tabun' is like saying 'I think maybe,' 'osoraku' is like saying 'It is highly likely.' You will often see it paired with 'deshou' at the end of the sentence. This is a very common pattern. For example: 'Osoraku ashita wa samui deshou' (It will probably be cold tomorrow). You should start noticing 'osoraku' in reading passages, especially those about plans, weather, or news. Try to use it once in a while in your writing to show that you can distinguish between casual and formal Japanese. It makes your Japanese sound more 'adult' and less like a beginner student.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'osoraku' correctly in formal situations. You understand that 'osoraku' is not just about probability, but also about the 'source' of that probability. It implies a logical deduction. When you use 'osoraku,' you are telling the listener that you have a reason for your guess. You should also be aware of its grammatical partners: '~darou,' '~deshou,' and '~ni chigai nai.' At this level, you should be careful not to use 'osoraku' in very casual conversations, as it can sound stiff. However, in a business email or a classroom presentation, it is the perfect word to use. You should also start to recognize the kanji '恐らく,' although it is frequently written in hiragana. Practice using it to describe future events or to explain the likely cause of a problem, such as 'Osoraku koshou deshou' (It is likely a breakdown).
At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of 'osoraku' versus its synonyms like 'kitto,' 'moshikashitara,' and 'tabun.' You understand that 'osoraku' carries a sense of objective probability (around 80-90%) and is often used in professional or academic contexts. You are also aware of its etymological roots in the word 'osoreru' (to fear), which gives it a slightly 'heavy' or serious tone, even when used for neutral topics. You should be able to use it fluently in complex sentences, such as 'Osoraku kare no iu koto wa tadashii darou ga, kakushin wa motenai' (What he says is likely true, but I can't be certain). You should also be comfortable seeing it in news reports and literature, where it is used to frame hypotheses. Your use of 'osoraku' should reflect a high level of social awareness, choosing it over 'tabun' to maintain a professional distance or to show respect for the complexity of a situation.
At the C1 level, you are expected to use 'osoraku' with the precision of a native speaker. This involves understanding the subtle 'cushioning' effect it provides in discourse. You use 'osoraku' to avoid sounding dogmatic or overly assertive, which is a key component of high-level Japanese communication. You should be able to distinguish between 'osoraku' and more literary alternatives like 'kedashi' or 'sadameshi.' You also understand how 'osoraku' functions in rhetorical structures, such as setting up a likely scenario only to pivot to a different possibility. Your mastery includes the ability to use it in written reports, academic papers, and formal speeches where you must balance confidence with intellectual humility. You also recognize when 'osoraku' is used sarcastically or for dramatic effect in literature to highlight a character's over-confidence or their logical but ultimately flawed reasoning.
At the C2 level, your understanding of 'osoraku' is exhaustive, encompassing its historical evolution from a word of 'fear' to a word of 'logical probability.' You can analyze its use in classical texts and modern masterpieces, noting how authors use it to establish tone and character voice. You are aware of the statistical nuances—how 'osoraku' sits precisely between the subjective 'tabun' and the absolute 'zettai'—and you use this knowledge to navigate the most sensitive social and professional environments. You can explain to others the 'concordance' (ko-ou) relationship between 'osoraku' and various sentence endings, and you can identify the subtle shifts in meaning when it is used with non-standard endings for stylistic reasons. For you, 'osoraku' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile tool for managing certainty, politeness, and logical flow in the most sophisticated levels of the Japanese language.

恐らく در ۳۰ ثانیه

  • Osoraku means 'probably' or 'likely' with a high degree of certainty (80-90%).
  • It is more formal and objective than the common casual word 'tabun'.
  • It usually appears at the start of a sentence and pairs with '~darou' or '~deshou'.
  • It is frequently used in news, business reports, and formal writing.

The Japanese adverb 恐らく (osoraku) is a sophisticated tool in the Japanese language used to express a high degree of probability, typically estimated at around 80% to 90%. While English speakers might simply use 'probably' or 'likely,' osoraku carries a specific weight and formal nuance that distinguishes it from the more common 多分 (tabun). Historically, the word is derived from the verb 恐れる (osoreru), meaning 'to fear' or 'to be in awe of.' In classical Japanese, it was used when the speaker feared that a certain negative outcome was likely to occur. However, in modern Japanese, this 'fear' aspect has largely faded, leaving behind a sense of objective, logical deduction or a polite, formal prediction.

The Logical Deduction Label
When a speaker uses osoraku, they are signaling that their conclusion is based on evidence, data, or a clear sequence of events rather than just a gut feeling. It is the language of weather forecasters, analysts, and detectives.
The Formality Label
In business settings or formal writing, osoraku is preferred over tabun. Using tabun in a board meeting might sound too casual or uncertain, whereas osoraku conveys a professional level of confidence tempered with Japanese modesty.

恐らく、明日の会議は中止になるでしょう。」
(Osoraku, ashita no kaigi wa chuushi ni naru deshou.)
"Probably, tomorrow's meeting will be canceled."

One of the most critical aspects of using osoraku is its relationship with sentence-ending particles. It is almost always paired with tentative forms like 〜だろう (darou) or 〜でしょう (deshou). This combination creates a 'sandwich' of probability that frames the entire statement. Without these endings, the sentence can feel grammatically incomplete or overly assertive, which contradicts the inherent uncertainty of an adverb meaning 'probably.'

「彼は恐らく、そのことを知らないはずだ。」
(Kare wa osoraku, sono koto o shiranai hazu da.)
"He likely shouldn't know about that matter."

The Negative Expectation Label
While modern usage is neutral, there is still a slight tendency to use osoraku when the 'likely' outcome is something undesirable, such as a failure, a delay, or a mistake. This is a subtle echo of its etymological roots in 'fear.'

In summary, osoraku is your 'go-to' word for high-probability, formal, and objective predictions. It bridges the gap between the casual tabun and the absolute zettai (definitely). By mastering its use, you elevate your Japanese from basic communication to nuanced, adult-level discourse.

Using 恐らく (osoraku) correctly requires an understanding of Japanese sentence structure and the 'concordance' of probability. In Japanese grammar, certain adverbs 'call out' to specific verb endings. Osoraku is a prime example of this; it sets a tone at the beginning of the sentence that must be resolved at the end.

Placement Strategy
Typically, osoraku appears at the very beginning of a sentence or immediately after the topic marker は (wa). Placing it early alerts the listener that what follows is a conjecture rather than a statement of fact.

恐らく、今夜は雨が降るだろう。」
(Osoraku, kon-ya wa ame ga furu darou.)
"It will likely rain tonight."

Notice the use of だろう (darou). This is the standard partner for osoraku. In more polite contexts, you would use でしょう (deshou). Using osoraku with a plain assertive ending like だ (da) or です (desu) is possible but less common, as it creates a slight clash between the 'probability' of the adverb and the 'certainty' of the verb ending.

「今回の失敗は、恐らく準備不足が原因だ。」
(Konkai no shippai wa, osoraku junbi-busoku ga gen-in da.)
"This failure is likely due to a lack of preparation."

The 'Hazu' Connection
When you are making a deduction based on a logical expectation, pairing osoraku with 〜はずだ (hazu da) is very effective. It translates to 'It is likely that [something] should be the case.'

In complex sentences, osoraku can also be used to qualify a reason. For example, 'He didn't come, likely because he was busy.' In Japanese, this would be: Kare wa konakatta. Osoraku isogashikatta no darou. The adverb provides the 'why' with a layer of polite distance, ensuring the speaker isn't making assumptions too boldly.

「その噂は恐らく本当ではないだろう。」
(Sono uwasa wa osoraku honto de wa nai darou.)
"That rumor is likely not true."

Finally, consider the rhythm. Osoraku is a four-mora word (o-so-ra-ku). It has a steady, rhythmic feel that lends itself to serious or contemplative speech. When speaking, a slight pause after osoraku can add emphasis and give your listener time to prepare for the 'likely' information you are about to share.

Understanding the 'habitat' of 恐らく (osoraku) is key to sounding natural. You won't often hear a group of teenagers using it while hanging out at a karaoke box; it’s too stiff for that. Instead, you will find it in environments where precision, politeness, and objective reasoning are valued.

News and Media
Journalists and news anchors are the primary users of osoraku. When reporting on an ongoing investigation or a developing weather pattern, they use it to state the most probable cause or outcome without claiming it as an absolute fact. It provides the necessary journalistic distance.

「犯人は恐らく、窓から侵入したと思われます。」
(Hannin wa osoraku, mado kara shinnyuu shita to omowaremasu.)
"It is thought that the culprit likely entered through the window."

In the corporate world, osoraku is the standard for reports and presentations. If a manager asks for a sales forecast, starting with osoraku shows that you have analyzed the trends. It sounds much more professional than tabun, which can sound like you're just guessing. It’s also used in emails to discuss schedules or potential delays.

恐らく、来週中には納品できるかと存じます。」
(Osoraku, raishuu-chuu ni wa nouhin dekiru ka to zonjimasu.)
"I believe we will likely be able to deliver within next week."

Literature and Mystery Novels
If you read Japanese detective fiction (like Edogawa Ranpo or Keigo Higashino), you'll see osoraku used by detectives during their 'big reveal' or deduction scenes. It conveys a sense of intellectual authority and logical progression.

Finally, you will hear it in academic lectures and scientific discussions. When a professor discusses a theory that is widely accepted but not yet proven, osoraku is the appropriate term. It signifies that while the evidence points in one direction, the speaker maintains scientific humility. For a learner, using osoraku in a classroom setting or a formal interview will immediately signal a high level of linguistic competence.

While 恐らく (osoraku) is a powerful word, it is easy to misuse if you treat it as a direct 1:1 replacement for 'probably.' Here are the most frequent pitfalls for English speakers learning Japanese.

Mistake 1: Over-using it in Casual Speech
Using osoraku with close friends or family can make you sound like a textbook or a news reporter. If you're asking a friend if they're coming to dinner, use tabun. Using osoraku in this context creates an awkward social distance.

❌ 「恐らく、明日遊べるよ。」 (Too formal for a friend)
✅ 「多分、明日遊べるよ。」 (Natural and casual)

Another common error is failing to use the correct sentence-ending particle. As mentioned before, osoraku needs a tentative ending. Ending a sentence with a definitive 〜だ (da) or 〜です (desu) when using osoraku can sound contradictory or grammatically 'jarring' to a native ear.

❌ 「恐らく、君なら合格するよ!」 (Sounds like a cold statistical analysis)
✅ 「きっと、君なら合格するよ!」 (Sounds encouraging and warm)

Mistake 3: Confusing Probability Levels
If something is only 'maybe' true (30-50%), osoraku is too strong. In those cases, use もしかしたら (moshikashitara) or ひょっとすると (hyotto suru to). Using osoraku implies you are quite certain.

Finally, remember the kanji. While often written in hiragana (おそらく), the kanji 恐らく is common in formal literature. However, writing it in kanji in a casual text message might make you look overly pedantic. Stick to hiragana for digital communication unless the context is very formal.

To truly master 恐らく (osoraku), you must understand where it sits in the spectrum of Japanese probability adverbs. Japanese has a rich vocabulary for 'maybe,' and choosing the right one depends on both the level of certainty and the social context.

Osoraku vs. Tabun (多分)
  • Osoraku: 80-90% certainty, formal, objective, based on evidence.
  • Tabun: 70-80% certainty, casual to neutral, subjective, based on personal opinion.
Osoraku vs. Kitto (きっと)
  • Osoraku: 'Likely' (logical prediction).
  • Kitto: 'Surely' (emotional expectation or strong conviction).

おそらく彼は来ないだろう。」 (Logical conclusion based on his schedule)
「彼はきっと来るよ!」 (Emotional belief that he will show up)

For lower levels of probability, you have もしかしたら (moshikashitara) and ひょっとすると (hyotto suru to). These are used when the chance of something happening is 50% or less—the 'might' or 'possibly' of English. Osoraku is much more confident than these two.

Osoraku vs. Taigai (大概)
  • Osoraku: Focuses on the probability of a specific future event.
  • Taigai: Focuses on general trends or 'mostly' (e.g., 'I mostly stay home on Sundays').

In written Japanese, you might also encounter 蓋し (kedashi), which is a very literary, archaic version of osoraku. You'll find it in old novels or legal texts. For modern learners, sticking to osoraku for formal situations and tabun for casual ones is the most effective strategy.

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

In the Edo period, 'osoraku' was still heavily associated with negative predictions. It wasn't until the modern era that it became a general-purpose adverb for high probability, including positive things.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK o.so.ɾa.kɯ
US o.so.ɾa.ku
In standard Japanese (Tokyo dialect), the pitch starts low on 'o', rises on 'so', and stays high on 'ra' and 'ku'. (Heiban style: L-H-H-H)
هم‌قافیه با
Karaku (Spicy) Haraku (Stomach - regional) Araku (Roughly) Hiraku (To open) Kikaku (Plan) Shikaku (Square) Gaku (Learning) Taku (House)
خطاهای رایج
  • Pronouncing the 'r' like an English 'r' (keep it as a tap).
  • Stressing one syllable too much (Japanese is mora-timed).
  • Elongating the 'o' at the start.
  • Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly.
  • Confusing the pitch accent with 'osoreru'.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 3/5

The kanji is recognizable but it is often written in hiragana. The context is usually clear.

نوشتن 4/5

Requires knowledge of the kanji '恐' and understanding of sentence-ending concordance.

صحبت کردن 3/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires social awareness to use in the right register.

گوش دادن 2/5

Very distinct sound; easy to pick out in news or formal speech.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

多分 (tabun) でしょう (deshou) だろう (darou) 雨 (ame) 来る (kuru)

بعداً یاد بگیرید

に違いない (ni chigai nai) と思われる (to omowareru) 蓋し (kedashi) 十中八九 (jicchu-hakkyu) 可能性 (kanousei)

پیشرفته

推量 (suiryou - conjecture) 蓋然性 (gaizensei - probability) 呼応 (ko-ou - grammatical concordance)

گرامر لازم

Adverbial Concordance (Ko-ou)

Osoraku pairs with ~darou.

Tentative Forms (~deshou/~darou)

Ashita wa ame deshou.

Explanatory 'no da'

Osoraku isogashii no darou.

Formal Passive (Omowareru)

Koshou da to omowareru.

Hazu (Logical Expectation)

Mou tsuite iru hazu da.

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

1

おそらく、あしたはあめです。

Probably, tomorrow is rain.

Basic use of osoraku at the start of a sentence.

2

かれはおそらくきません。

He probably won't come.

Using osoraku with a negative verb.

3

それはおそらくたかいです。

That is probably expensive.

Using osoraku with an adjective.

4

おそらく、たなかさんでしょう。

Probably, it's Mr. Tanaka.

Pairing osoraku with deshou.

5

このほんはおそらくおもしろいです。

This book is probably interesting.

Osoraku qualifying an adjective.

6

おそらく、もうすぐつきます。

Probably, I will arrive soon.

Using osoraku for time-related predictions.

7

かれはおそらくがくせいです。

He is probably a student.

Using osoraku with a noun.

8

おそらく、だいじょうぶです。

Probably, it's okay.

Osoraku used for reassurance.

1

恐らく、明日は晴れるでしょう。

Probably, it will be sunny tomorrow.

Standard formal weather prediction.

2

彼は恐らく、もう家に着いたはずです。

He likely should have arrived home already.

Pairing osoraku with hazu desu.

3

恐らく、この電車は遅れるだろう。

Probably, this train will be late.

Using osoraku with darou.

4

そのニュースは恐らく本当です。

That news is probably true.

Osoraku with a simple desu ending.

5

恐らく、彼女は怒っていると思います。

I think she is probably angry.

Pairing osoraku with ~to omoimasu.

6

恐らく、テストは難しいでしょう。

Probably, the test will be difficult.

Predicting the difficulty of an event.

7

この料理は恐らく辛いですよ。

This dish is probably spicy, you know.

Using osoraku with the particle 'yo'.

8

恐らく、道に迷ったのだと思います。

I think I probably got lost.

Using osoraku to explain a situation.

1

恐らく、今回の計画は成功するに違いない。

Likely, this plan will undoubtedly succeed.

Pairing osoraku with ~ni chigai nai for strong probability.

2

彼は恐らく、その事実を知らなかったのだろう。

He likely didn't know that fact, I suppose.

Using osoraku with the explanatory ~no darou.

3

恐らく、来週の会議は延期になると思われます。

It is thought that next week's meeting will likely be postponed.

Formal passive form ~to omowaremasu.

4

この問題の原因は、恐らく人為的なミスでしょう。

The cause of this problem is likely a human error.

Using osoraku in a diagnostic context.

5

恐らく、彼はもうすぐ辞職するつもりなのだろう。

He likely intends to resign soon, it seems.

Osoraku with intention (~tsumori).

6

その噂は恐らく、誰かが作った嘘だろう。

That rumor is likely a lie someone made up.

Using osoraku to dismiss a rumor.

7

恐らく、この薬を飲めば良くなるはずです。

Likely, you should get better if you take this medicine.

Osoraku with conditional ~ba and hazu.

8

恐らく、彼は私の名前を忘れてしまったのだろう。

He likely ended up forgetting my name.

Osoraku with ~te shimatta (regret/completion).

1

恐らく、景気は今後さらに悪化するであろうと予測されている。

It is predicted that the economy will likely worsen further in the future.

Formal written style ~de arou.

2

恐らく、彼は確信を持ってそう言ったに違いない。

He likely said that with conviction, without a doubt.

Combining osoraku with adverbial phrases.

3

今回の不祥事は、恐らく組織全体の責任と言えるだろう。

This scandal can likely be called the responsibility of the entire organization.

Osoraku with ~to ieru darou (can be said).

4

恐らく、彼女の沈黙は肯定を意味しているのだろう。

Her silence likely means affirmation.

Interpreting abstract behavior with osoraku.

5

恐らく、この作品は後世に名を残すことになるだろう。

This work will likely end up leaving its name for future generations.

Osoraku with ~koto ni naru (resultative).

6

恐らく、彼は自分の過ちに気づいていないのではないか。

Isn't it the case that he likely hasn't noticed his own mistake?

Osoraku with ~no dewa nai ka (rhetorical question).

7

恐らく、その決定を覆すのは容易ではないだろう。

Likely, overturning that decision will not be easy.

Osoraku with negative potentiality.

8

恐らく、彼は最初からすべてを知っていたと思われる。

It is thought that he likely knew everything from the beginning.

Osoraku with ~to omowareru (objective thought).

1

恐らく、この政策が国民の支持を得ることは極めて困難であろう。

Likely, it will be extremely difficult for this policy to gain the support of the people.

High-level political analysis.

2

恐らく、彼の行動の裏には何か深い意図が隠されているに相違ない。

Likely, some deep intention must be hidden behind his actions.

Using ~ni soui nai (formal 'no doubt').

3

恐らく、我々が直面しているのは氷山の一角に過ぎないのだろう。

Likely, what we are facing is nothing more than the tip of the iceberg.

Metaphorical usage in a formal context.

4

恐らく、事態は我々の予想を遥かに超えるスピードで進展するだろう。

Likely, the situation will progress at a speed far exceeding our expectations.

Osoraku with comparative phrases.

5

恐らく、彼は自らの信念を貫くために、あえて困難な道を選んだのだ。

Likely, he dared to choose the difficult path in order to stick to his beliefs.

Explaining motivations with osoraku.

6

恐らく、この発見は科学史における大きな転換点となるに違いない。

Likely, this discovery will undoubtedly become a major turning point in scientific history.

Academic prediction.

7

恐らく、その言葉の真意を理解できる者は少ないであろう。

Likely, those who can understand the true meaning of those words are few.

Osoraku with restrictive subjects (few people).

8

恐らく、彼は孤独の中で自らの芸術を完成させたのであろう。

Likely, he completed his art within solitude.

Biographical conjecture.

1

恐らく、この文明の崩壊は、環境の変化と内乱が複雑に絡み合った結果であろう。

Likely, the collapse of this civilization was the result of a complex intertwining of environmental change and civil strife.

Historical analysis with complex noun phrases.

2

恐らく、筆者がこの一節に込めた意図は、読者の想像力に委ねられているのであろう。

Likely, the intention the author put into this passage is left to the reader's imagination.

Literary criticism.

3

恐らく、宇宙の真理を解明することは、人類にとって永遠の課題であり続けるに違いない。

Likely, elucidating the truths of the universe will undoubtedly remain an eternal challenge for humanity.

Philosophical conjecture.

4

恐らく、彼の沈黙こそが、言葉以上に雄弁にその苦悩を物語っているのであろう。

Likely, his very silence tells the story of his suffering more eloquently than words.

Rhetorical use of 'koso' and 'osoraku'.

5

恐らく、この技術革新が社会構造を根底から覆す日は、そう遠くないと思われる。

Likely, the day when this technological innovation overturns the social structure from its roots is thought to be not so far off.

Sociological prediction.

6

恐らく、我々が現実と呼んでいるものは、脳が作り出した精巧なシミュレーションに過ぎないのかもしれない。

Likely, what we call reality might be nothing more than an elaborate simulation created by the brain.

Metaphysical speculation.

7

恐らく、伝統の継承とは、単なる模倣ではなく、時代に合わせた絶え間ない変革のプロセスなのであろう。

Likely, the succession of tradition is not mere imitation, but a process of constant transformation suited to the times.

Defining abstract concepts.

8

恐らく、彼は自らの運命を悟り、静かにその時を待っていたのであろう。

Likely, he realized his fate and was quietly waiting for that moment.

Narrative conjecture.

ترکیب‌های رایج

恐らく〜だろう
恐らく〜でしょう
恐らく〜と思われる
恐らく〜に違いない
恐らく〜はずだ
恐らく〜のではないか
恐らく〜可能性が高い
恐らく〜と言えるだろう
恐らく〜に相違ない
恐らく〜であろう

عبارات رایج

恐らく無理だ

— It is likely impossible. Used to politely decline or state a hard reality.

そのスケジュールでは恐らく無理だ。

恐らく大丈夫

— It's likely okay. A common way to reassure someone in a professional tone.

恐らく大丈夫だと思います。

恐らく間違い

— Likely a mistake. Used when pointing out an error politely.

それは恐らく何かの間違いです。

恐らく最後

— Likely the last. Used for final opportunities or events.

これが恐らく最後のチャンスだ。

恐らく本当

— Likely true. Used when confirming a rumor or report.

その話は恐らく本当だろう。

恐らく知らない

— Likely doesn't know. Used when discussing someone's awareness.

彼は恐らくその事を知らない。

恐らく中止

— Likely canceled. Common in event planning or weather delays.

試合は恐らく中止になるだろう。

恐らく失敗

— Likely a failure. Used in post-mortem analysis.

恐らく準備不足が失敗の原因だ。

恐らく必要

— Likely necessary. Used when suggesting requirements.

恐らく許可が必要になるでしょう。

恐らく解決

— Likely resolved. Used in progress reports.

問題は恐らく解決するはずだ。

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

恐らく vs 恐ろしい (osoroshii)

This is an adjective meaning 'scary.' While related, 'osoraku' is an adverb meaning 'probably.'

恐らく vs 恐れる (osoreru)

This is the verb 'to fear.' 'Osoraku' comes from this but has a different grammatical function.

恐らく vs 恐縮 (kyoushuku)

This means 'feeling obliged/sorry.' It is used in formal apologies, not for probability.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"恐らくは天の配剤"

— Likely a provision of heaven. Used when something lucky happens unexpectedly.

この出会いは恐らくは天の配剤だろう。

Literary
"恐らくこの世の終わり"

— Likely the end of the world. Hyperbole for a disastrous situation.

それがバレたら恐らくこの世の終わりだ。

Informal/Dramatic
"恐らく一生の不覚"

— Likely a lifelong mistake. Used when one makes a huge blunder.

彼を信じたのは恐らく一生の不覚だ。

Formal/Dramatic
"恐らく類を見ない"

— Likely unparalleled. Used to describe something unique.

これは恐らく類を見ない大発見だ。

Academic/Formal
"恐らく筆舌に尽くしがたい"

— Likely beyond description. Used for extreme emotions or scenes.

その美しさは恐らく筆舌に尽くしがたい。

Literary
"恐らく後の祭り"

— Likely too late (after the festival). Used when a guess comes too late.

今さら言っても恐らく後の祭りだろう。

Idiomatic
"恐らく他言無用"

— Likely not to be told to others. Used for confidential information.

この件は恐らく他言無用だ。

Business
"恐らく一長一短"

— Likely has both merits and demerits.

どの案も恐らく一長一短だろう。

Formal
"恐らく暗中模索"

— Likely groping in the dark. Used when a situation is unclear.

現状は恐らく暗中模索の状態だ。

Formal
"恐らく前代未聞"

— Likely unheard of. Used for shocking or new events.

これは恐らく前代未聞の事件だ。

Journalistic

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

恐らく vs きっと (kitto)

Both mean something like 'likely.'

Kitto is subjective/emotional (I hope/expect). Osoraku is objective/logical (Based on facts).

きっと勝つ! (Surely we'll win! - hope) vs Osoraku勝つだろう。 (We'll likely win. - analysis)

恐らく vs 多分 (tabun)

Both translate to 'probably.'

Tabun is casual and less certain. Osoraku is formal and more certain.

多分行く。 (Maybe I'll go.) vs 恐らく行くでしょう。 (I will likely go.)

恐らく vs もしかしたら (moshikashitara)

Both express possibility.

Moshikashitara is low probability (30%). Osoraku is high probability (80-90%).

もしかしたら雨かも。 (Might rain.) vs 恐らく雨でしょう。 (Likely rain.)

恐らく vs はず (hazu)

Both involve logical deduction.

Hazu is a noun/suffix meaning 'should be.' Osoraku is an adverb that can be used with hazu.

来るはずだ。 (He should come.) vs 恐らく来るはずだ。 (He will likely come.)

恐らく vs 十中八九 (jicchu-hakkyu)

Both mean 'almost certainly.'

Jicchu-hakkyu is an idiom and sounds more dramatic/strong than the standard osoraku.

十中八九、失敗する。 (90% chance it fails.)

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

A2

恐らく [Sentence] でしょう。

恐らく明日は休みでしょう。

B1

恐らく [Sentence] だろう。

恐らく彼は来ないだろう。

B1

恐らく [Sentence] はずだ。

恐らくもう知っているはずだ。

B2

恐らく [Sentence] に違いない。

恐らくそれは嘘に違いない。

B2

恐らく [Sentence] と思われる。

恐らく故障だと思われる。

C1

恐らく [Sentence] であろう。

恐らく困難であろう。

C1

恐らく [Sentence] のではないか。

恐らく間違いではないか。

C2

恐らく [Sentence] に相違ない。

恐らく真実に相違ない。

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

恐れ (osore) - Fear/Awe
恐怖 (kyoufu) - Terror

فعل‌ها

恐れる (osoreru) - To fear
恐れ入る (osoreiru) - To be filled with awe/humbled

صفت‌ها

恐ろしい (osoroshii) - Terrible/Scary
恐れ多い (osoreooi) - Gracious/Awe-inspiring

مرتبط

多分 (tabun)
きっと (kitto)
蓋し (kedashi)
恐縮 (kyoushuku)
恐怖心 (kyoufushin)

نحوه استفاده

frequency

Common in formal speech and writing; rare in casual slang.

اشتباهات رایج
  • Using 'osoraku' with 'zettai'. Osoraku ... darou.

    You can't say 'probably definitely.' They contradict each other.

  • Using 'osoraku' in a casual text to a best friend. Tabun.

    It sounds too cold and formal for close relationships.

  • Forgetting the 'darou' or 'deshou' at the end. Osoraku ... deshou.

    Without the tentative ending, the sentence feels grammatically unbalanced.

  • Using 'osoraku' for low probability (maybe). Moshikashitara.

    'Osoraku' implies you are quite sure (80%+).

  • Confusing 'osoraku' with 'osoroshii'. Osoraku (adv) vs Osoroshii (adj).

    Don't say 'The movie was osoraku' when you mean 'The movie was scary.'

نکات

The Probability Sandwich

Think of 'osoraku' as the first slice of bread and 'darou' as the second. They sandwich your idea to show it's a guess.

Sound Like an Adult

Switching from 'tabun' to 'osoraku' in formal settings is an easy way to make your Japanese sound more mature.

Objective vs Subjective

Use 'osoraku' when you have evidence. Use 'tabun' when you just have a feeling.

Kanji vs Hiragana

Use hiragana for a softer, modern feel. Use kanji for a traditional, serious feel.

News Keyword

When you hear 'osoraku' on the news, pay attention—it's the reporter's main theory about the event.

The Polite Cushion

Use 'osoraku' to soften a negative prediction so you don't sound too blunt or rude.

Oh So Likely

Remember: O-SO-raku = Oh SO likely. It helps link the sound to the meaning.

Pair with 'Omowareru'

In very formal reports, pair 'osoraku' with 'omowareru' (it is thought) for maximum objectivity.

Context Clues

If you see 'osoraku' in a story, the character is likely a detective, a teacher, or someone in authority.

Don't Overdo It

Don't use 'osoraku' in every sentence. It's a strong word that should be used sparingly for impact.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of 'O-SO-RA-KU'. 'O, SO RA (sky) is KU (dark)'. If the sky is dark, it will PROBABLY rain. This links the word to a logical weather prediction.

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a detective with a magnifying glass looking at a footprint. He says 'Osoraku...' as he makes a logical deduction.

شبکه واژگان

Probability Logic Formal Deduction Fear (root) News Business Prediction

چالش

Try to use 'osoraku' in a sentence today instead of 'tabun' when you are talking about something serious, like your homework or the weather.

ریشه کلمه

Derived from the classical Japanese verb 'osoru' (modern 'osoreru'), which means to fear or be in awe. It originally functioned as a way to express a prediction that one 'feared' would come true.

معنای اصلی: I fear that... / It is to be feared that...

Japonic

بافت فرهنگی

Be careful using it for very happy news (like a wedding); 'kitto' is better because 'osoraku' can sound a bit cold or clinical.

English speakers often use 'definitely' to sound confident, but in Japanese, 'osoraku' (probably) often sounds more professional and trustworthy than 'zettai' (definitely).

Used frequently by Sherlock Holmes in Japanese translations. Commonly heard in the anime 'Detective Conan' during deductions. A staple word in NHK news broadcasts.

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Weather Forecast

  • 恐らく雨でしょう
  • 恐らく晴れるでしょう
  • 恐らく雪になるだろう
  • 恐らく台風が来る

Business Meeting

  • 恐らく可能です
  • 恐らく延期になります
  • 恐らく問題ありません
  • 恐らく成功します

News Report

  • 恐らく犯人は...
  • 恐らく原因は...
  • 恐らく被害は...
  • 恐らく今後...

Academic Discussion

  • 恐らくこの理論は...
  • 恐らく事実は...
  • 恐らく影響は...
  • 恐らく結果は...

Mystery/Detective

  • 恐らく彼は嘘を...
  • 恐らくトリックは...
  • 恐らく時間は...
  • 恐らく動機は...

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"恐らく、明日のイベントは混むでしょうね。 (Probably, tomorrow's event will be crowded, right?)"

"恐らく、新しいiPhoneは高いだろうね。 (Probably, the new iPhone will be expensive, huh?)"

"恐らく、彼はもうすぐ着くと思いますよ。 (I think he'll probably arrive soon.)"

"恐らく、このレストランは予約が必要ですよ。 (This restaurant probably needs a reservation.)"

"恐らく、来週はもっと寒くなるでしょう。 (It will likely get colder next week.)"

موضوعات نگارش

恐らく、10年後の自分は何をしていると思いますか? (What do you think you will likely be doing in 10 years?)

恐らく、将来のテクノロジーはどう変わるでしょうか? (How will future technology likely change?)

恐らく、あなたが一番好きな場所はどこですか?その理由は? (Where is likely your favorite place? Why?)

恐らく、明日一番大変なことは何ですか? (What is likely the most difficult thing tomorrow?)

恐らく、人生で一番大切なことは何だと思いますか? (What do you think is likely the most important thing in life?)

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

It's better to avoid it. It sounds very stiff and formal. Use 'tabun' instead. If you use 'osoraku' with friends, they might think you are joking or being overly dramatic.

No, it is very frequently written in hiragana (おそらく). In formal documents or literature, the kanji 恐らく is used. In emails or texts, hiragana is more common.

There is no official number, but linguists generally place it around 80-90%. It is much higher than 'moshikashitara' (30%) and slightly higher than 'tabun' (70%).

No, 'osoraku' is an adverb and usually comes at the beginning or middle of a sentence. You cannot end a sentence with it like you can with 'tabun' in very casual speech.

In the past, people mostly made predictions about things they were worried about (like storms or war). So, 'I fear that...' became 'It is likely that...'

Yes, it is very common. It's a great way to say 'I think this will happen' while sounding professional and objective.

Yes, you can! For example, 'Osoraku seikou suru deshou' (It will likely succeed). However, 'kitto' is often used if you want to sound more encouraging.

Adding 'wa' makes it slightly more emphatic and formal. It's often used in written Japanese to highlight the probability.

It doesn't strictly 'require' it, but it is the most natural pairing. Using it with just 'desu' can sound a bit incomplete to native speakers.

Yes, it is typically associated with the N3 or N2 levels of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test.

خودت رو بسنج 180 سوال

writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' to predict the weather tomorrow.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' to explain why someone is late.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a formal business sentence using 'osoraku' and 'omowareru'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'It is likely that he doesn't know the truth.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' and 'ni chigai nai'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' and 'hazu da'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'This discovery will likely change the world.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' to express a polite refusal.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' about a future technology.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'The meeting will likely be postponed.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' and 'no dewa nai ka'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' and 'tsumori'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'That rumor is likely a lie.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' in a medical context.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' about a sports game.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'He likely forgot my name.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' and 'kanousei ga takai'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' about a mystery.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'It will likely be cold tonight.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Write a sentence using 'osoraku' and 'de arou'.

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce 'osoraku' with the correct pitch accent (Heiban).

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' in a sentence to predict the arrival of a train.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain the difference between 'osoraku' and 'tabun' in Japanese.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Make a formal prediction about a business project using 'osoraku'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to express a logical deduction about why a store is closed.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Roleplay: You are a weather reporter. Use 'osoraku' to describe a typhoon.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to politely disagree with someone's plan.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Describe a future goal using 'osoraku'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' in a sentence with 'hazu da'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Pronounce 'osoraku wa' with emphasis.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to hypothesize about a historical event.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to describe a person's feelings.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Make a prediction about the economy using 'osoraku'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to explain a technical problem.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to talk about a rumor.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' in a sentence with 'ni chigai nai'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to describe a scientific discovery.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to predict the outcome of a game.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' to talk about a movie's ending.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Use 'osoraku' in a very formal Keigo sentence.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、明日は雨でしょう。' What is the weather?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: '彼はおそらく来ない。' Is he coming?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、故障だと思われます。' What is the situation?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、もうすぐ着くはずです。' When will they arrive?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、それは間違いでしょう。' Is it correct?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、彼は怒っているのだろう。' How does he feel?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、会議は中止になるだろう。' What happened to the meeting?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、彼は真実を知らない。' Does he know the truth?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、成功する可能性が高い。' Is it likely to succeed?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、彼は最初から知っていた。' When did he know?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、それは嘘だ。' Is it true?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、来週は忙しい。' When is the person busy?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、道に迷ったのだろう。' What happened?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、もう準備はできている。' Is the preparation done?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Listen to the sentence: 'おそらく、彼は辞めるつもりだ。' What is his intention?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:

/ 180 درست

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محتوای مرتبط

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