Translation guide
The English word "odds" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones: probability/chances, difficulties/obstacles, and betting odds. It also includes related expressions like "at odds" and "odds and ends."
Expressing how likely something is to happen, often in terms of a ratio or likelihood.
The most direct and common translation for 'odds' as probability. Used in both formal and casual contexts.
成功する確率は低い。
The odds of success are low.
雨が降る確率は50%です。
The odds of rain are 50%.
Refers to prospects or likelihood, often used in business or planning contexts. Slightly more formal than 確率.
彼が来る見込みは薄い。
The odds of him coming are slim.
Means 'possibility' and can be used to talk about odds in a more general sense.
彼が勝つ可能性は低い。
The odds of him winning are low.
Referring to things that make success harder, often used in phrases like 'against all odds' or 'overcome the odds.'
Means 'difficulty' or 'hardship.' Used in expressions like 'against all odds' (多くの困難にもかかわらず).
多くの困難にもかかわらず、彼は成功した。
Against all odds, he succeeded.
Means 'adversity.' Often used in motivational contexts.
Literally 'unfavorable situation,' used to describe being at a disadvantage.
不利な状況にもかかわらず、彼らは戦い続けた。
Despite the odds, they kept fighting.
The ratio or numbers used in gambling to indicate potential winnings.
The direct loanword from English, commonly used in sports betting and gambling contexts.
この馬のオッズは5倍だ。
The odds on this horse are 5 to 1.
A more technical term for betting odds, less common than オッズ.
賭け率を計算する。
Calculate the odds.
Describing a situation where people or things are in conflict or disagreement.
Means 'to be in opposition/conflict.' Commonly used for people or ideas.
彼らはその問題で対立している。
They are at odds over the issue.
Literally 'opinions don't match,' a softer way to say 'at odds.'
私たちはよく意見が合わない。
We are often at odds.
Miscellaneous small items or tasks.
Refers to junk or miscellaneous small items, often with a negative connotation.
引き出しにがらくたがたくさんある。
There are a lot of odds and ends in the drawer.
Means 'small miscellaneous things,' more neutral than がらくた.
引っ越しの前に細々したものを片付ける。
Sort out the odds and ends before moving.
The English word 'odds' covers several distinct concepts. Using オッズ for probability or difficulties will sound unnatural. Choose the appropriate Japanese word based on the intended meaning.
確率 is the standard word for mathematical probability or chances. 見込み is more about prospects or expectations, often used in business or planning. For example, 成功の見込み (prospects of success) vs 成功の確率 (probability of success).
逆境を乗り越える。
Overcome the odds.