Expressions · N4–N3
やっぱり / やはり: as expected, after all
A stance word that reconnects the present conclusion with an earlier expectation or possibility.
In short
やはり is the fuller form; やっぱり is very common in conversation. Depending on context, they can mean “as expected”, “after all”, or “on second thought, I knew it”.
How it works
The key is a return to something already considered: evidence confirms it, or the speaker returns to an original preference.
Useful contrast
A dictionary gloss alone is not enough; intonation and what was previously expected determine the natural English translation.
Examples
やっぱり雨が降りました。
It rained after all / as expected.
やっぱりこれにします。
I will go with this one after all.
Common pitfall
Do not insert “as expected” mechanically. Sometimes “after all” or “I knew it” fits much better.