Translation guide
Describes a tendency to expect the worst or focus on negative outcomes. Japanese has several common adjectives and phrases, with 悲観的 (hikanteki) being the most direct equivalent, but more natural expressions often use verbs or set phrases.
To describe a person, view, or attitude that is generally pessimistic.
The most direct translation. A な-adjective meaning 'pessimistic'. Commonly used in formal and written contexts, but also in everyday speech.
To express pessimism regarding a particular event, plan, or possibility.
A very common pattern meaning 'I think ~ is difficult', implying pessimism about success. Replace 〜 with the thing you are pessimistic about.
この計画は難しいと思う。
I think this plan will be difficult (implying pessimism).
悲観的 is more formal and often used in written analysis or serious discussion. ネガティブ is a casual loanword commonly used to describe someone's personality or mood. In everyday conversation, ネガティブ is very common, but 悲観的 is preferred in formal contexts.
彼は悲観的な性格だ。
He has a pessimistic personality. (formal)
あの人はネガティブすぎる。
That person is too negative. (casual)
The direct loanword ペシミスティック exists but is very rare and sounds unnatural. Use 悲観的 or ネガティブ instead.
彼は将来について悲観的だ。
He is pessimistic about the future.
悲観的な見方をする。
To take a pessimistic view.
Verb phrase using 悲観する (to be pessimistic). Often used with について (about) or を (regarding).
彼は自分の将来を悲観している。
He is pessimistic about his own future.
Literally 'to think in a bad direction'. A natural, everyday way to say someone is being pessimistic or assuming the worst.
彼はいつも悪い方に考える。
He always thinks the worst.
Loanword from English 'negative'. Often used to describe a person's personality or thinking style. More casual than 悲観的.
彼はネガティブな人だ。
He is a negative/pessimistic person.
Literally 'backward-facing'. Used to describe a pessimistic or negative attitude, often in contrast to 前向き (forward-looking, positive).
後ろ向きな考え方はよくない。
A pessimistic way of thinking is not good.
Attached to verb stems to mean 'it doesn't look like ~ will happen'. Expresses a pessimistic prediction.
雨が止みそうにない。
It doesn't look like the rain will stop.
彼が来そうにない。
It doesn't look like he will come.
Literally 'the prospect is thin'. A slightly formal phrase meaning there is little hope or chance.
成功の見込みは薄い。
The chances of success are slim.