Meaning and Usage
"案の定" is a common adverb used to express that something happened just as expected or predicted, often with a nuance of inevitability or confirmation of suspicion. It is frequently used in everyday conversation and writing to indicate that the outcome was predictable.
Nuance
Using "案の定" often implies that the speaker had some doubt or suspicion beforehand, and the result confirmed it. It can carry a slightly negative or resigned tone, especially when the outcome is undesirable.
Common Collocations and Patterns
- 案の定 + [negative or problematic event]: to express that a bad or unwanted event happened as expected.
- 案の定 + 〜た (past tense): to report that something occurred as predicted.
- 案の定 + 〜する (present/future tense): to indicate a likely or expected action.
Register and Politeness
"案の定" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is common in news reports, novels, and daily conversations.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse "案の定" with words that simply mean "usually" or "normally." "案の定" specifically emphasizes that the outcome matched a prior expectation or suspicion, often with a sense of inevitability.