나 보다 vs 것 같다

Both express uncertainty, but they feel different in conversation.

Quick difference

• 나 보다: stronger "looks like / apparently" from observed clues
• 것 같다: broad, flexible "I think / it seems"

Examples

• 비가 오나 봐요.

  • "Looks like it's raining."

• 비가 올 것 같아요.

  • "I think it's going to rain."

Rule of thumb

Use 나 보다 when you infer from visible or immediate evidence. Use 것 같다 for general opinion, prediction, or softer judgment.