Translation and Meaning of: 推測 - suisoku

The Japanese word 推測 [すいそく] is a common term in everyday life and language study, representing an important concept for those who wish to understand nuances of communication in Japan. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and practical uses, as well as tips for memorization based on reliable sources. If you are learning Japanese or just curious about this expression, Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, provides all the necessary information to master its correct usage.

Meaning and translation of 推測

推測 [すいそく] means "assumption," "speculation," or "inference." It is used when someone draws a conclusion based on clues, but without absolute certainty. For example, if you see dark clouds in the sky and say it's going to rain, you are making a 推測. The closest translation in Portuguese would be "to guess" or "to deduce," but with a more formal tone.

Unlike words like 予想 [よそう] (forecast) or 仮定 [かてい] (hypothesis), 推測 carries an idea of logical reasoning, even if unproven. It is a term often found in scientific discussions, debates, and even in everyday conversations when someone is trying to explain something uncertain.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 推測 is composed of two kanjis: 推 (su-i), which means "to push" or "to infer," and 測 (soku), which represents "to measure" or "to calculate." Together, they convey the idea of "measuring through inference," which aligns perfectly with the current meaning. This composition is a classic example of how kanjis construct logical terms in Japanese.

It's worth noting that both kanjis have Chinese origins, following the common structure of Sino-Japanese words (kango). The radical of 推 is related to manual actions, while 測 is connected to measurements, reinforcing the notion that 推測 is an "evaluation based on evidence."

How to use 推測 in everyday life

"推測" appears frequently in formal and informal contexts. At work, it can be used to discuss market projections or data analysis. In casual conversations, it is common to hear phrases like "それはただの推測ですか？" (Is that just a conjecture?). The word is also widely used in news, especially when journalists comment on possible political or economic scenarios.

One tip to memorize 推測 is to associate it with situations where you need to "fill in the gaps" of information. For example, if a friend arrives late, you can 推測 that the traffic was bad. This practice helps to cement the term in a natural and contextualized way.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

予想 (Yosou) - Forecast, expectation about something that may happen.
推量 (Suiryou) - Estimation, assumption based on evidence or indications.
推理 (Suiri) - Reasoning, deduction from available information.
推定 (Suitei) - Determination or assessment based on data or assumptions, commonly used in legal or scientific contexts.
推察 (Suisa) - Intuition, interpretation, or deduction about something that is not explicit, usually involving a more subjective reading of the situation.