やはり

• Reading: やはり
• Romaji: yahari
• Pronunciation: /ja.ha.ɾi/

Meaning

As expected; after all; still; also. Confirms something matches one's expectations.

An adverb expressing that a result matches what was expected or feared. やっぱり is the more casual spoken form. Can mean 'as I thought,' 'after all' (when returning to an original choice), or 'still' (despite changes). One of the most versatile and frequently used adverbs in Japanese conversation.

Examples

1. やはり日本語は難しいですね。 Japanese really is difficult, as expected.
2. やっぱり電車で行くことにしました。 I decided to take the train after all.
3. 考えたけど、やはりやめることにした。 I thought about it, but I decided to quit after all.

Usage Guide

Context: conversation, daily life, opinions

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Derived from the classical Japanese やはり, itself from 矢張り. The literal meaning relates to a bow remaining taut — something staying as it was, hence 'as expected' or 'still the same.'

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal