案外

• Reading: あんがい
• Romaji: angai
• Kanji breakdown: 案 (an) — idea, plan, expectation; 外 (gai/soto) — outside
• Pronunciation: /a.ŋ.ɡa.i/

Meaning

Unexpectedly; contrary to expectations. Expresses surprise at an outcome differing from what was anticipated.

An adverb placed before the surprising element. Unlike 意外 (igai), which is a na-adjective meaning 'unexpected,' 案外 functions purely as an adverb and often carries a lighter, more casual tone. Frequently used when the result is better than expected.

Examples

1. この料理は案外おいしかった。 This dish was surprisingly good.
2. 案外簡単に問題が解けた。 The problem was unexpectedly easy to solve.
3. 彼は案外優しい人だった。 He turned out to be surprisingly kind.

Usage Guide

Context: conversation, impressions, reviews

Tone: surprised

Origin & History

Compound of 案 (an, idea/expectation) and 外 (gai, outside). Literally 'outside one's expectations,' conveying that reality fell beyond what was anticipated.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal