かな

JLPT Level: N4
Meanings

I wonder

I’m not sure

perhaps I wonder if...

it would be nice if... (soft wish)

Usage

Verb (dictionary form) + かな

い-adjective (dictionary form) + かな

Noun + かな

Na-adjective + かな

Note: often with かなぁ for softer nuance

Explanation
かな is a casual, self-directed sentence-ending particle used to express wonder, doubt, or a gentle speculation about something. It’s commonly used when thinking to oneself or speaking in a soft, tentative way. It is informal and typically not used in formal writing or speeches. The nuance is closer to “I wonder…” or “I guess…” rather than making a firm assertion. It can be followed by a question mark in writing to emphasize the wonder, or lengthened with かなぁ for a softer, more dreamy tone.
明日雨が降るかな。
あしたあめがふるかな。

I wonder if it will rain tomorrow.

このケーキ、おいしいかな。
このケーキ、おいしいかな。

I wonder if this cake is tasty.

あの人はもう来ないかな。
あのひとはもうこないかな。

I wonder if that person won’t come.

宿題を忘れたかな。
しゅくだいをわすれたかな。

I wonder if I forgot my homework.

元気かな。
げんきかな。

I wonder if I’m well / I hope they’re well.