Translation guide
The English word 'prospect' covers several distinct meanings: a future possibility or chance, the act of searching for something (especially minerals), a view or scene, and a potential customer or candidate. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To talk about something that might happen in the future, especially a positive opportunity or likelihood.
The most common and versatile word for 'prospect' in the sense of likelihood, hope, or expectation. Used in business and daily life.
成功の見込みはあまりない。
There is little prospect of success.
明日雨が降る見込みです。
There is a prospect of rain tomorrow.
Means 'possibility' and can be used for prospects, but is more neutral and less hopeful than 見込み.
戦争になる可能性は低い。
The prospect of war is low.
Refers to a future outlook or vista, often used in formal contexts like economic prospects.
経済の展望は明るい。
The economic prospects are bright.
Means 'future potential' or 'promise', often used for people, companies, or technologies.
彼は将来性がある。
He has good prospects.
To refer to the activity of looking for valuable minerals, oil, etc.
Specifically means 'prospecting' for minerals. Used in mining contexts.
彼らは金の探鉱をしている。
They are prospecting for gold.
General verb 'to search for'. Can be used with resources, but less technical than 探鉱.
To describe a wide view or panorama, often from a high place.
Common word for a view or scene. Can be used for prospects in the sense of a vista.
山頂からの眺めは素晴らしい。
The prospect from the mountaintop is wonderful.
Means 'scenery' or 'landscape', often used for natural views.
窓からの景色がいい。
The prospect from the window is nice.
Also means 'view' or 'vista', but more formal and often used in compounds like 展望台 (observation deck).
To refer to a person who might become a customer, client, or suitable candidate.
Business term for a 'prospect' or 'potential customer'.
新しい見込み客を探しています。
We are looking for new prospects.
Means 'candidate' and can be used for a prospect in the sense of a person being considered for a position.
The katakana word プロスペクト is rarely used in Japanese and sounds unnatural. Use the appropriate Japanese word based on the meaning.
They are prospecting for oil.
ここからの展望は最高だ。
The prospect from here is superb.
He is a presidential prospect.