Understanding 予想 (よそう)
The word 予想 means "expectation," "anticipation," or "prediction." It is commonly used in everyday conversation and formal contexts to talk about what someone thinks will happen in the future based on information or intuition.
Usage and Nuance
When you use 予想, you imply that you have some basis or reasoning behind your prediction, whether from data, experience, or observation. It is often used with verbs like 立てる (to make/establish) or 通り (as expected).
Common Collocations
- 予想する: to predict or expect something
- 予想外 (よそうがい): unexpected, beyond prediction
- 予想通り: just as expected
- 予想を立てる: to make a prediction
Register and Politeness
予想 is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal speech. It fits well in business, weather forecasts, and daily conversations.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 予想 with 推測 (すいそく), which also means "guess" or "estimate." 予想 usually implies a more informed prediction, while 推測 can be more of a guess without strong evidence.