How to Say “Obviously” in Japanese

When it comes to expressing the notion of “obviously” in Japanese, there are several words and phrases that can be used depending on the level of formality and context. In this guide, we will explore various ways to convey the meaning of “obviously” in Japanese, providing tips, examples, and even a few regional variations to enrich your language skills.

Formal Ways to Say “Obviously”

If you want to express “obviously” in a formal setting or when speaking politely, the following words and phrases can be used:

1. 明白に（めいはくに）: This phrase can be translated as “clearly” or “obviously” and is commonly used in formal situations. For instance, you can say:

彼女の才能は明白にわかる。
(Her talent is obviously apparent.)

当然（とうぜん）: This term carries the meaning of “naturally” or “as a matter, of course,” and can be used as a formal way to express “obviously.” For example:

彼は当然のこととしてそれを知っている。
(He obviously knows that as a matter of course.)

言うまでもない（いうまでもない）: This phrase means “goes without saying” or “needless to say,” and is used to imply that something is obvious. Here’s an example:

この計画は成功すると言うまでもない。
(It goes without saying that this plan will succeed.)

Informal Ways to Say “Obviously”

In more casual settings or when speaking informally with friends, you can use the following expressions to convey the meaning of “obviously” in Japanese:

1. もちろん: This term means “of course” and is commonly used in everyday conversations. It can be used to express something obvious or self-evident, such as:

もちろん彼女はそのことを知っているよ。
(Obviously, she knows about it.)

当然（とうぜん）: While “当然” was mentioned earlier as a formal expression, it can also be used casually to convey the meaning of “obviously” among friends. For example:

彼は当然それをやるだろう。
(Obviously, he will do it.)

バカに決まっている（バカにきまっている）: This colloquial phrase literally means “decidedly stupid” and is used to emphasize the obviousness of something in a slightly playful manner. For instance:

あの人が優勝するのはバカに決まっている！
(Obviously, that person will win, no doubt about it!)

Tips for Using “Obviously” Appropriately

While knowing how to say “obviously” in Japanese is useful, it’s equally important to understand when and how to appropriately use these expressions. Here are a few essential tips:

• Consider the context: Before using any of the expressions mentioned, consider the context of the situation and adjust your word choice accordingly. Different situations call for different levels of formality.
• Pay attention to your audience: When speaking with someone of higher social status, it’s generally better to use more formal expressions to show respect. In casual conversations, feel free to use the informal variants.
• Use body language: In addition to using the appropriate words, you can emphasize the meaning of “obviously” by accompanying them with appropriate facial expressions and gestures. This adds clarity and helps convey your intent effectively.

Remember, in any language, proper usage and understanding of idiomatic expressions come with practice. So, take every opportunity to engage with native speakers and immerse yourself in Japanese culture to refine your skills.

Now that we’ve explored various ways to say “obviously” in Japanese, from formal to informal expressions, you can confidently express this notion in a variety of situations. Enjoy your language learning journey and have fun incorporating these new phrases into your conversations!