When you want to say something is probably true, you can use 〜でしょう. For example, 「雨が降るでしょう」(Ame ga furu deshou) means "It will probably rain."
You can also use 〜でしょう to ask for confirmation, a bit like saying "isn't it?" For example, 「暑いでしょう？」(Atsui deshou?) means "It's hot, isn't it?"
Finally, you can use it to invite someone to do something in a polite way. 「一緒に行きましょう」(Issho ni ikimashou) means "Let's go together."
When you're not 100% sure about something, but you have a good guess, you can use 〜でしょう. It's like saying "probably" or "I guess" in English. For example, if you see dark clouds, you might say, "雨が降るでしょう" (It will probably rain).
You can also use 〜でしょう to ask for confirmation, especially when you think you know the answer, but want to double-check. Imagine you're confirming plans with a friend: "明日、パーティーに行くでしょう？" (You're going to the party tomorrow, aren't you?).
Sometimes, it's used to invite someone or suggest something gently. If you want to invite someone for coffee, you could say, "コーヒーを飲みに行きましょう？" (Shall we go get some coffee?). This usage is softer than a direct invitation.
So, remember, 〜でしょう helps you express probability, seek confirmation, or make a gentle suggestion, making your Japanese sound more natural and polite.
When used with a rising intonation (でしょう↑), 〜でしょう asks for confirmation, similar to 'right?' or 'isn't it?' in English. For example, 「今日は暑いでしょう？」 (It's hot today, isn't it?).
With a falling intonation (でしょう↓), it expresses probability or a guess, meaning 'probably' or 'most likely'. For instance, 「明日は雨が降るでしょう。」 (It will probably rain tomorrow.).
It can also be used as an invitation or suggestion, often in more formal contexts, like 「一緒に行きましょう。」 (Shall we go together?).
The meaning often depends on the context and intonation, so pay close attention to how it's spoken.
When used with a rising intonation (でしょう↗), 〜でしょう means something like “Isn’t it so?” or “Right?” and is used to confirm information you believe to be true. For example, 寒いでしょう↗ (Samui deshou↗) means “It’s cold, isn’t it?” or “It’s cold, right?”
When used with a falling intonation (でしょう lowered), 〜でしょう is used to express probability, meaning “probably” or “likely.” For example, 明日は雨でしょう (Ashita wa ame deshou) means “It will probably rain tomorrow.” It indicates the speaker’s assessment of likelihood.
〜でしょう can also be used to invite someone to do something, similar to “Let’s, shall we?” or “Why don’t we?” For instance, 行きましょう (Ikimashou) means “Let’s go.” It’s a polite and softer way to suggest an action.
The usage of 〜でしょう is versatile and depends heavily on context and intonation. Pay attention to how it’s spoken to grasp the nuance.
〜でしょう in 30 Seconds
- polite probability
- seeking confirmation
- making invitations
You're learning Japanese, and that's great! Today, we're going to dive into a super useful word: 「〜でしょう」. You'll hear this everywhere in Japan, from casual chats to serious news reports. It's a key phrase for sounding natural.
§ What 「〜でしょう」 means
- Japanese Word
- 〜でしょう
- Definition
- Probably, isn't it?; expresses probability, confirmation, or invitation.
Basically, 「〜でしょう」 adds a layer of 'probably,' 'I guess,' or 'right?' to your sentences. It's a way to express a likelihood or to seek agreement from the listener. It's also used to invite someone to do something.
§ Hearing 「〜でしょう」 at work
In a professional setting, 「〜でしょう」 is often used to make polite predictions or suggest plans. It softens your statements and makes them sound less assertive, which is often preferred in Japanese business communication.
明日の会議は午後から始まるでしょう。(Ashita no kaigi wa gogo kara hajimaru deshou.)
Hint: 'The meeting tomorrow will probably start in the afternoon.'
このプロジェクトは来月には終わるでしょう。(Kono purojekuto wa raigetsu ni wa owaru deshou.)
Hint: 'This project will probably be finished by next month.'
§ Using 「〜でしょう」 at school
In a school setting, teachers might use it to explain something with a hint of certainty or to ask students if they understand. Students might use it when making educated guesses or asking for confirmation.
これは重要なポイントでしょう。(Kore wa juuyou na pointo deshou.)
Hint: 'This is probably an important point.' or 'This is an important point, isn't it?'
宿題は今日の夜までに終わらせるでしょう。(Shukudai wa kyou no yoru made ni owaraseru deshou.)
Hint: 'You'll probably finish your homework by tonight.'
§ Hearing 「〜でしょう」 in the news
News anchors and reporters use 「〜でしょう」 to present information that is likely but not yet confirmed, or to share predictions. It's a way to maintain objectivity while discussing future events or analyses.
明日は雨が降るでしょう。(Ashita wa ame ga furu deshou.)
Hint: 'It will probably rain tomorrow.'
経済は今後も成長を続けるでしょう。(Keizai wa kongo mo seichou o tsuzukeru deshou.)
Hint: 'The economy will likely continue to grow.'
§ More practical examples
Let's look at a few more common ways you'll hear and use 「〜でしょう」 in daily life:
一緒にご飯を食べに行きませんでしょうか。(Issho ni gohan o tabe ni ikimasen deshou ka.)
Hint: 'Shall we go eat together?' (Invitation)
彼はもう家に着いたでしょう。(Kare wa mou ie ni tsuita deshou.)
Hint: 'He probably already arrived home.' (Probability)
この答えで合っているでしょうか。(Kono kotae de atteiru deshou ka.)
Hint: 'This answer is correct, isn't it?' (Confirmation)
Mastering 「〜でしょう」 will significantly improve your ability to communicate naturally and express nuanced meanings in Japanese. Keep practicing!
§ Don't overuse it for certainty
Many learners, especially at the B1 level, tend to use 〜でしょう (deshou) when they are quite certain about something, or when they want to state a fact. While it can express probability, using it too much when you're sure can make you sound hesitant or less confident than you intend. Remember, 〜でしょう implies a degree of uncertainty or seeking confirmation.
- DEFINITION
- Probably, isn't it?; expresses probability, confirmation, or invitation.
明日は晴れるでしょう。(Ashita wa hareru deshou.)
This sentence correctly uses 〜でしょう to express probability: "It will probably be sunny tomorrow." However, if you are certain it will be sunny (e.g., you checked the weather forecast), you might simply say: 明日は晴れます (Ashita wa haremasu).
§ Using it for direct questions (seeking information)
While 〜でしょう can be used to seek confirmation, it's generally not used for asking direct questions where you are seeking new information. For example, if you want to know someone's name, you wouldn't say: お名前はでしょうか (O-namae wa deshou ka?). This sounds unnatural. Instead, you would use a standard question form:
お名前は何ですか。(O-namae wa nan desu ka?)
If you want to confirm something you already suspect, then 〜でしょう is appropriate. For instance:
あなたも学生でしょう？ (Anata mo gakusei deshou?)
This means: "You are a student too, aren't you?" Here, you are seeking confirmation based on an existing assumption.
§ Incorrect casual vs. polite usage
〜でしょう is generally a polite form. The casual equivalent is 〜だろう (darou). A common mistake is to mix these up or use 〜でしょう in overly casual contexts where 〜だろう would be more appropriate, or vice-versa. Always consider your audience and the social context.
Polite: 明日は雨が降るでしょう。(Ashita wa ame ga furu deshou.) - "It will probably rain tomorrow, won't it?"
Casual: 明日は雨が降るだろう。(Ashita wa ame ga furu darou.) - "It'll probably rain tomorrow, right?"
Using 〜でしょう with close friends in a casual setting might sound a bit stiff, while using 〜だろう in a formal setting would be inappropriate.
§ Not attaching it correctly to different word types
〜でしょう attaches directly to the plain form of verbs and i-adjectives. For na-adjectives and nouns, you need to remember the correct connection.
Verbs (plain form): 行くでしょう (iku deshou) - "will probably go"
i-adjectives (plain form): 寒いでしょう (samui deshou) - "will probably be cold"
na-adjectives (no だ): 静かでしょう (shizuka deshou) - "will probably be quiet" (NOT 静かだでしょう)
Nouns (no だ): 学生でしょう (gakusei deshou) - "will probably be a student" (NOT 学生だでしょう)
Pay attention to these small but important grammatical rules to ensure your Japanese sounds natural and correct.
How Formal Is It?
"明日は雨が降るでしょう。 (Tomorrow, it will probably rain.)"
"田中さんも来るでしょう？ (Mr. Tanaka is coming, right?)"
"これ、美味しいだろ？ (This is delicious, right?)"
Difficulty Rating
straightforward hiragana
straightforward hiragana
intonation can change nuance
intonation can change nuance
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Examples by Level
これは美味しいでしょう？
This is delicious, isn't it?
Used to seek confirmation when you expect agreement.
明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
Used to express probability or a prediction.
彼も来るでしょう。
He will probably come too.
Used to express probability.
あの人は先生でしょう。
That person is a teacher, isn't he/she?
Used to seek confirmation.
一緒に食べましょう。
Let's eat together.
Used as an invitation, similar to 'ましょう'.
これはあなたのペンでしょう？
This is your pen, isn't it?
Used to confirm something you suspect is true.
来週は忙しいでしょう。
Next week will probably be busy.
Used to express probability.
もう帰る時間でしょう。
It's time to go home, isn't it?
Used to gently suggest or confirm a current situation.
明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
Expresses probability.
これはあなたのペンでしょう？
This is your pen, isn't it?
Seeks confirmation.
彼はもうすぐ来るでしょう。
He will probably come soon.
Expresses probability.
一緒に映画を見に行きませんか？ 楽しいでしょう。
Shall we go see a movie together? It will probably be fun.
Expresses expectation/invitation.
あの店は美味しいでしょう。
That shop is probably delicious (serves delicious food).
Expresses probability based on assumption.
宿題は終わったでしょう？
You've finished your homework, haven't you?
Seeks confirmation.
彼は日本語が上手でしょう。
He's probably good at Japanese.
Expresses probability.
次の電車は5分後に来るでしょう。
The next train will probably come in 5 minutes.
Expresses probability.
明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
Expresses probability.
これは美味しいでしょう？
This is delicious, isn't it?
Seeks confirmation or agreement.
そろそろ行きましょう。
Shall we go soon?
An invitation or suggestion.
彼も来るでしょう。
He will probably come too.
Expresses probability.
この答えで合っているでしょう？
This answer is correct, isn't it?
Seeks confirmation.
もう遅いでしょうから、帰りましょう。
It's probably late already, so let's go home.
Expresses probability and an invitation.
それは難しい問題でしょう。
That's probably a difficult problem.
Expresses probability.
手伝いましょうか？
Shall I help you?
An offer of help.
明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
Expresses probability (prediction).
これはあなたのペンでしょう？
This is your pen, isn't it?
Expresses confirmation (seeking agreement).
一緒に映画を見に行きませんか。楽しいでしょう！
Shall we go see a movie together? It will be fun!
Expresses an invitation/suggestion with an expectation of a positive outcome.
彼はもう家に帰ったでしょう。
He probably already went home.
Expresses probability (a reasonable assumption).
このレポートは今日中に終わるでしょう。
This report will probably be finished by the end of today.
Expresses probability (a plan or expectation).
あの人は有名な俳優でしょう？
That person is a famous actor, isn't he/she?
Expresses confirmation (seeking verification).
この本、面白いでしょう？
This book is interesting, isn't it?
Expresses confirmation (soliciting agreement).
もう少し頑張れば、合格できるでしょう。
If you try a little harder, you'll probably pass.
Expresses probability (a prediction based on effort).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
これは彼のペンでしょう。
This is probably his pen.
あの人は先生でしょう。
That person is probably a teacher.
もう遅いでしょうから、帰りましょう。
It's probably late already, so let's go home.
この問題は簡単でしょう。
This problem is probably easy.
彼も来るでしょう。
He will probably come too.
京都へ行くでしょう？
You're going to Kyoto, aren't you?
これでいいでしょう。
This should be fine, right?
彼は忙しいでしょう。
He is probably busy.
明日、パーティーがあるでしょう？
There's a party tomorrow, isn't there?
Often Confused With
While 〜と思います expresses an opinion ('I think'), it can sometimes overlap with the probabilistic use of でしょう, as in 'I think it will rain' vs. 'It will probably rain.' However, 〜と思います is about personal thought, while でしょう is about general likelihood.
〜ですね is a general agreement or confirmation particle. While でしょう？ can seek confirmation, 〜ですね simply affirms something already established or observed, often with a feeling of shared understanding.
〜ましょう is a direct invitation or suggestion ('Let's do...'). While でしょう can be used to extend a softer invitation, 〜ましょう is more forceful and definitive in its call to action.
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"そうでしょう？"
Right? / Isn't that so?
彼もそうでしょう？ (He thinks so too, doesn't he?)
neutral"Aでしょう、Bでしょう"
Probably A, probably B; enumerating possibilities.
明日は雨でしょう、明後日もでしょう。(It'll probably rain tomorrow, and the day after too.)
neutral"〜でしょうね"
Probably so, I suppose so; often with a sense of resignation or agreement.
そうでしょうね。 (Yes, I suppose so.)
neutral"〜でしょうとも"
Of course, certainly (emphatic agreement).
もちろん、そうでしょうとも。 (Of course, certainly.)
formal"〜でしょうよ"
It must be, I tell you (emphatic assertion).
彼が来るでしょうよ。 (He'll definitely come, I tell you.)
informal"〜でしょうが"
Probably... but; introduces a concession.
難しいでしょうが、頑張ります。 (It'll probably be difficult, but I'll do my best.)
neutral"〜でしょうねえ"
I wonder, I guess so (with a sigh or pondering).
どうなるでしょうねえ。 (I wonder what will happen.)
neutral"〜でしょうから"
Since it's probably...; gives a reason based on probability.
忙しいでしょうから、連絡しません。 (Since you're probably busy, I won't contact you.)
neutral"〜でしょうね、きっと"
Yes, probably, for sure (stronger probability).
合格するでしょうね、きっと。 (You'll probably pass, for sure.)
neutral"〜でしょう、と聞かれたら"
If asked 'isn't it...?' (responding to a confirmation question).
「寒いでしょう？」と聞かれたら、「はい、寒いです」と答えます。 (If asked 'It's cold, isn't it?', I'll answer 'Yes, it's cold'.)
neutralEasily Confused
〜でしょう can be confusing because its meaning shifts depending on context and intonation. It can express probability, seek confirmation, or even extend an invitation. Learners often struggle to differentiate these nuances.
When expressing probability, it's similar to 'probably' or 'likely.' When seeking confirmation, it's like 'isn't it?' or 'right?' When inviting, it's softer than 'しましょう' (let's do).
明日は雨が降るでしょう。(It will probably rain tomorrow.) これはあなたの傘でしょう？ (This is your umbrella, isn't it?) 映画を見に行きましょうか。(Shall we go see a movie?)
だろう is the plain form of でしょう and carries similar meanings, but its usage differs in formality and nuance. Learners might not know when to use one over the other.
だろう is more casual and often used among close friends or in informal settings. でしょう is more polite and generally safer for general conversation.
彼は来るだろう。(He'll probably come.) それは本当だろうか。(I wonder if that's true.)
かもしれません also expresses probability, leading to confusion with でしょう. The degree of certainty implied by each can be subtle.
かもしれません generally indicates a lower degree of certainty than でしょう, suggesting 'might' or 'possibly.' でしょう suggests a higher probability, closer to 'probably' or 'likely.'
明日、雪が降るかもしれません。(It might snow tomorrow.) それは難しいかもしれません。(That might be difficult.)
はずです also expresses expectation or probability based on some evidence, making it similar to でしょう but with a distinct nuance.
はずです implies a stronger expectation based on prior information or reason, meaning 'it should be' or 'it is expected to be.' でしょう is more of a general probability or guess.
彼はもう到着しているはずです。(He should have arrived by now.) この電車は速いはずです。(This train is supposed to be fast.)
When でしょう is used with a rising intonation to form a question, it functions as a confirmation-seeking particle, which can be confused with simply stating a probability.
With a rising intonation, でしょう？ asks for agreement or confirmation, similar to 'right?' or 'isn't it?' Without it, it's a statement of probability.
美味しいでしょう？ (It's delicious, isn't it?) 彼は学生でしょう？ (He's a student, right?)
Sentence Patterns
Verb-casual + でしょう
明日は雨が降るでしょう. (It will probably rain tomorrow.)
い-adjective + でしょう
この本は面白いでしょう. (This book is probably interesting, isn't it?)
な-adjective + でしょう
彼は元気でしょう. (He is probably fine, isn't he?)
Noun + でしょう
これは猫でしょう. (This is probably a cat, isn't it?)
〜でしょう + か (to ask for confirmation/opinion)
あの人は誰でしょう か. (Who might that person be?)
〜でしょう (to invite or suggest)
一緒に行きましょう. (Let's go together.)
Verb-casual negative + でしょう
彼は来ないでしょう. (He probably won't come.)
Past tense verb-casual + でしょう
もう食べたでしょう. (You've probably eaten already, haven't you?)
How to Use It
When 〜でしょう follows a verb or adjective, it expresses probability. When it follows a noun or な-adjective, use 〜でしょう directly after it. When it follows an い-adjective, use 〜でしょう directly after it. You can also use 〜でしょう to ask for confirmation or to invite someone to do something.
A common mistake is confusing 〜でしょう with 〜だろう. While similar, 〜でしょう is generally more polite and can be used in more situations. Another mistake is overusing it when a direct statement is more appropriate. Remember to consider the nuance.
Tips
Basic Meaning
〜でしょう (deshou) fundamentally means 'probably' or 'isn't it?'. It adds a level of uncertainty or seeks confirmation.
Expressing Probability
When used to express probability, it's like saying 'I think it will...' or 'It's likely that...'. You attach it to the end of a verb, adjective, or noun in its plain form.
Seeking Confirmation
To seek confirmation, especially from someone you expect to agree, it's similar to 'right?' or 'isn't that so?'. Use a rising intonation when asking.
Making an Invitation
You can use 〜でしょう to make a gentle invitation or suggestion. For example, '行きましょう' (ikimashou) means 'Let's go'.
Intonation Matters
The intonation you use with 〜でしょう can change its meaning. A rising intonation usually means you're asking a question or seeking confirmation, while a falling intonation expresses a probability.
Formal vs. Informal
〜でしょう is a more formal version of 〜だろう (darou). You'll hear 〜だろう more in casual conversations among friends.
Attaching to Verbs
Attach 〜でしょう to the plain form of verbs. For example, '食べるでしょう' (taberu deshou - probably eat).
Attaching to Adjectives
For い-adjectives, attach it directly: '寒いでしょう' (samui deshou - probably cold). For な-adjectives, add だ: '暇でしょう' (hima deshou - probably free).
Attaching to Nouns
For nouns, add だ: '学生でしょう' (gakusei deshou - probably a student).
Combined with Other Particles
You might hear 〜でしょう combined with other particles for nuanced meanings, like '〜でしょうね' (deshou ne - 'right? (seeking agreement)') or '〜でしょうよ' (deshou yo - 'I tell you, it is! (emphatic assertion)').
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Making a polite suggestion or invitation.
- 一緒に映画を見に行きませんか。(Issho ni eiga o mi ni ikimasen ka.) - Shall we go see a movie together?
- 今晩、食事でもどうでしょう。(Konban, shokuji demo dou deshou.) - How about dinner tonight?
- 週末に何か予定はありますか。(Shuumatsu ni nani ka yotei wa arimasu ka.) - Do you have any plans for the weekend?
Expressing probability or speculation about the future.
- 明日は晴れるでしょう。(Ashita wa hareru deshou.) - It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
- 彼はもうすぐ来るでしょう。(Kare wa mou sugu kuru deshou.) - He will probably come soon.
- たぶん、大丈夫でしょう。(Tabun, daijoubu deshou.) - It's probably alright.
Seeking confirmation or agreement from the listener.
- これは美味しいでしょう。(Kore wa oishii deshou.) - This is delicious, isn't it?
- 彼は日本語が上手でしょう。(Kare wa Nihongo ga jouzu deshou.) - He's good at Japanese, isn't he?
- 試験は難しかったでしょう。(Shiken wa muzukashikatta deshou.) - The exam was difficult, wasn't it?
Politely offering an opinion or advice.
- その方がいいでしょう。(Sono hou ga ii deshou.) - That would probably be better.
- もう少し待った方がいいでしょう。(Mou sukoshi matta hou ga ii deshou.) - It would probably be better to wait a little longer.
- 彼に聞いてみたらどうでしょう。(Kare ni kiite mitara dou deshou.) - How about asking him?
When guessing or estimating something.
- たぶん、2000円くらいでしょう。(Tabun, nisen-en kurai deshou.) - It's probably about 2000 yen.
- 彼は30歳くらいでしょう。(Kare wa sanjuu-sai kurai deshou.) - He's probably around 30 years old.
- これは日本のものでしょう。(Kore wa Nihon no mono deshou.) - This is probably from Japan.
Conversation Starters
"今週末、何かする予定はありますか。"
"このレストラン、美味しいでしょう。"
"来年、どこか旅行に行きたいですか。"
"あなたの国では、休日はどんなことをしますか。"
"新しい映画、もう見ましたか。"
Journal Prompts
最近あった「〜でしょう」を使った会話を思い出して、その状況を説明してください。
明日、何をする予定ですか。自分の予定を「〜でしょう」を使って書いてみましょう。
あなたの好きな場所について、「〜でしょう」を使って説明してください。
日本の文化について、知っていることを「〜でしょう」を使っていくつか書いてみましょう。
今日、あなたが「〜でしょう」と思ったことを3つ書いて、その理由も説明してください。
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYou use 〜でしょう to express probability, seek confirmation, or make an invitation. It's a versatile phrase that shows you're not 100% certain, or you're asking someone to agree with you, or inviting them to do something.
〜でしょう is generally considered polite and can be used in both formal and semi-formal contexts. If you want a more casual version, you can use 〜だろう (darou).
To make a guess, you attach 〜でしょう to the plain form of a verb or i-adjective, or after a noun/na-adjective with だ (which often gets omitted).
Example: 明日は雨でしょう。 (Ashita wa ame deshou.) - It will probably rain tomorrow.
Yes, you can. When you use it to ask for confirmation, your intonation will usually rise at the end. You're basically saying, 'This is what I think, right?'
Example: これは美味しいでしょう？ (Kore wa oishii deshou?) - This is delicious, isn't it?
When used as an invitation, it often sounds like 'Shall we...?' or 'Let's...' It's a gentle way to suggest an activity.
Example: 一緒に行きましょう。 (Issho ni ikimashou.) - Let's go together. (Note: Here, 〜ましょう is a more common form of invitation, but 〜でしょう can be used in similar contexts to soften a suggestion).
Both express probability, but 〜だと思います (da to omoimasu) explicitly states 'I think that...' while 〜でしょう is a more direct statement of probability. 〜でしょう can also be used for confirmation or invitation, which 〜だと思います cannot.
Yes, it can, especially when you're asking for confirmation or expressing a gentle suggestion. The rising intonation is key for questions.
Example: 彼は来ないでしょう？ (Kare wa konai deshou?) - He won't come, will he?
Not always. While 'probably' is a common meaning, it can also mean 'isn't it?' (for confirmation) or 'shall we?' (for invitation). The context and intonation are crucial for understanding its exact nuance.
For verbs and i-adjectives, you make them negative first and then add 〜でしょう. For nouns/na-adjectives, it's usually ではないでしょう (dewa nai deshou).
Example: それはよくないでしょう。 (Sore wa yoku nai deshou.) - That's probably not good. / That's not good, is it?
Yes, it's quite common. You'll hear it often in daily conversations, news reports, and various other contexts because it's so versatile for expressing degrees of certainty or making polite suggestions.
Test Yourself 108 questions
これはペン___。
Adding でしょう to the end of a sentence expresses probability or asks for confirmation.
田中さんは学生___。
でしょう is used to express probability or seek agreement, like 'Mr. Tanaka is a student, isn't he?'
明日は雨___。
でしょう indicates probability, meaning 'It will probably rain tomorrow.'
これは美味しい___。
Using でしょう here suggests 'This is delicious, isn't it?' asking for confirmation.
彼も行く___。
でしょう implies probability, so 'He will probably go too.'
駅はあそこ___。
でしょう is used to confirm, 'The station is over there, isn't it?'
Choose the best English translation for: 「これはあなたのペンでしょう？」
〜でしょう is used here for confirmation, asking 'isn't it?'.
Which sentence uses 〜でしょう to express probability?
In this sentence, 〜でしょう indicates that it is probable it will rain tomorrow.
How would you invite someone to do something using 〜でしょう?
When used in a volitional form (〜ましょう), it functions as an invitation or suggestion.
「これは高いでしょう？」 (This is expensive, isn't it?) uses 〜でしょう to confirm information.
Yes, the speaker is seeking agreement or confirmation about the price.
「彼が来るでしょう。」 (He will come, won't he?) primarily expresses an invitation.
No, this sentence expresses probability or an expectation, not an invitation.
You can use 〜でしょう at the end of a sentence to mean 'probably'.
Correct. 〜でしょう often conveys probability, especially when talking about future events or uncertain facts.
Choose the best English translation for: 「明日雨が降るでしょう。」
〜でしょう (deshou) indicates probability. So, the sentence means 'It will probably rain tomorrow.'
Which sentence uses 〜でしょう to ask for confirmation?
Adding 〜でしょう to the end of a sentence with a rising intonation can ask for confirmation, like 'This is your pen, isn't it?'
You want to invite someone to go to the park with you. Which is the most natural way to use 〜でしょう?
〜ましょうか (mashou ka) is a common way to extend an invitation or suggest an action in Japanese.
The sentence 「彼は学生でしょう。」 (Kare wa gakusei deshou.) definitely means 'He is a student.'
「でしょう」 indicates probability, so the sentence means 'He is probably a student,' or 'He is a student, isn't he?' if asking for confirmation, not a definite statement.
「美味しいでしょう？」 (Oishii deshou?) is a way to ask 'It's delicious, isn't it?'
When used with a rising intonation at the end of a sentence, 〜でしょう can ask for confirmation.
You can only use 〜でしょう to talk about the future.
While often used for future probabilities, 〜でしょう can also be used to express probability or seek confirmation about present situations or past events.
Someone is offering food and asking for confirmation or expressing expectation.
Someone is talking about tomorrow's weather.
Someone is making an assumption about another person's occupation.
Read this aloud:
この本は面白いでしょう？
Focus: でしょう
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
週末は映画に行くでしょう。
Focus: でしょう
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
もうすぐ着くでしょう。
Focus: でしょう
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a sentence in Japanese asking if someone is busy tomorrow, using でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
明日、お忙しいでしょうか。
Write a sentence in Japanese guessing that it will probably rain tomorrow, using でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
明日、雨が降るでしょう。
Write a sentence in Japanese inviting someone to go to the park, using でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
公園に行きましょう。
What does B think about the pen?
Read this passage:
A: これはあなたのペンですか。 B: いいえ、私のペンではありません。田中さんのペンでしょう。
What does B think about the pen?
B says, 'It's not my pen. It's probably Tanaka's pen.'
B says, 'It's not my pen. It's probably Tanaka's pen.'
What is the speaker advising to wear?
Read this passage:
明日、寒くなるでしょう。厚いセーターを着てくださいね。
What is the speaker advising to wear?
The passage says '厚いセーターを着てくださいね' (Please wear a thick sweater).
The passage says '厚いセーターを着てくださいね' (Please wear a thick sweater).
What is A doing by asking '美味しいでしょう'?
Read this passage:
A: このケーキは美味しいでしょう？ B: はい、とても美味しいです。
What is A doing by asking '美味しいでしょう'?
A is using でしょう to seek confirmation of B's agreement that the cake is delicious.
A is using でしょう to seek confirmation of B's agreement that the cake is delicious.
This sentence means 'Mr. Tanaka is probably a student.' 'でしょう' comes at the end to express probability.
This sentence means 'It will probably rain tomorrow.' 'でしょう' is used after the verb in plain form to indicate probability.
This sentence means 'This cake is probably delicious, isn't it?' 'でしょう' is used after an i-adjective to confirm or express probability.
明日は雨が降る___。
〜でしょう is used to express probability, meaning 'probably' or 'it will likely'.
これは山田さんの本___？
〜でしょう can be used to seek confirmation, similar to 'isn't it?' or 'right?'.
一緒に映画を見に行きませんか。___、いいですね。
〜でしょう can be used to suggest or invite, often in response to an invitation, expressing agreement or enthusiasm.
彼はもう日本に着いた___。
〜でしょう expresses a high probability or assumption.
このレストランは美味しい___？
〜でしょう is used here to confirm information about the restaurant's quality.
来週のテストは難しい___。
〜でしょう indicates an expectation or probability that the test will be difficult.
Choose the best English translation for: 「明日は晴れるでしょう。」
〜でしょう is used here to express probability, so 'It will probably be sunny tomorrow' is the most accurate translation.
Which sentence uses 〜でしょう to ask for confirmation?
When 〜でしょう is used at the end of a question, it often seeks confirmation, like '...isn't it?' or '...right?'.
How would you invite someone to eat lunch with you using 〜でしょう?
〜でしょう can be used in the volitional form (ましょう) to make an invitation or suggestion. '食べましょう' means 'Let's eat'.
「これは高いでしょう。」 means 'This is probably expensive.'
In this context, 〜でしょう expresses probability, so the statement is true.
「彼は日本人でしょう？」 means 'He was Japanese, wasn't he?'
This sentence means 'He is Japanese, isn't he?' The 'was' would require a past tense form before でしょう.
When used with a rising intonation, 〜でしょう can turn a statement into a question seeking agreement.
A rising intonation with 〜でしょう often indicates that the speaker is seeking agreement or confirmation from the listener.
What is the speaker predicting?
What is the speaker asking for confirmation about?
What is the speaker suggesting and implying?
Read this aloud:
この本は面白いでしょう。
Focus: でしょう
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
田中さんはもう家に着いたでしょう。
Focus: でしょう
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
週末は公園に行きましょう。いい天気でしょう？
Focus: でしょう
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You are meeting a friend for dinner. Suggest a time, expressing some probability. Use 〜でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
多分、7時に会いましょう。
You see a dark cloud and think it will probably rain. Write a sentence expressing this. Use 〜でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
雨が降るでしょう。
You are confirming with a friend that a movie starts at 8 PM. Write a sentence asking for confirmation. Use 〜でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
映画は8時に始まるでしょう？
What is B's response about tomorrow's weather?
Read this passage:
A: 明日は晴れるでしょうか？ B: はい、たぶん晴れるでしょう。
What is B's response about tomorrow's weather?
B uses たぶん晴れるでしょう (probably be sunny) to express probability.
B uses たぶん晴れるでしょう (probably be sunny) to express probability.
What is the speaker trying to do with this sentence?
Read this passage:
これは美味しいでしょう？
What is the speaker trying to do with this sentence?
〜でしょう is used here for confirmation, similar to 'Isn't it delicious?'
〜でしょう is used here for confirmation, similar to 'Isn't it delicious?'
What is the speaker suggesting?
Read this passage:
そろそろ行きましょう。
What is the speaker suggesting?
〜ましょう is used here as an invitation to do something, so そろそろ行きましょう means 'Let's go soon.'
〜ましょう is used here as an invitation to do something, so そろそろ行きましょう means 'Let's go soon.'
This sentence means 'It will probably rain tomorrow.' or 'It will rain tomorrow, won't it?' でしょう is used to express probability.
This sentence means 'This is delicious, isn't it?' でしょう is used to confirm something the speaker believes to be true.
This sentence means 'Shall we go see a movie together?' or 'We're going to see a movie together, aren't we?' でしょう can be used to invite or suggest an action.
Choose the best way to complete the sentence: 明日は雨が降る＿＿＿。
〜でしょう is used to express probability, meaning 'probably' or 'most likely'.
Which sentence uses 〜でしょう to seek confirmation?
When used with a rising intonation, 〜でしょう can ask for confirmation, like 'isn't it?'.
Select the sentence where 〜でしょう is used as an invitation.
When used with volitional form, 〜でしょう can be an invitation or suggestion, similar to 'let's...'.
〜でしょう can be used to express strong certainty about something.
〜でしょう indicates probability, not strong certainty. For strong certainty, you would use expressions like 'に違いない' or 'はずです'.
When 〜でしょう is used at the end of a question, it always implies an invitation.
When 〜でしょう is used at the end of a question with a rising intonation, it often seeks confirmation ('isn't it?'), not always an invitation.
It is natural to use 〜でしょう with past tense verbs to speculate about past events.
You can indeed use 〜でしょう with past tense verbs to speculate about what probably happened in the past, e.g., '彼らはもう着いたでしょう' (They probably already arrived).
What is the speaker saying about the weekend weather?
When is he expected to arrive?
What is the speaker asking about the homework?
Read this aloud:
明日は忙しいでしょう？
Focus: でしょう (deshou)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
それは難しいでしょう。
Focus: でしょう (deshou)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
一緒に映画に行きましょう？
Focus: 行きましょう (ikimashou)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
今日の会議は午後3時に始まる___。
「〜でしょう」は推量を表し、ここでは「会議が午後3時に始まるだろう」という推測を述べています。
このレポート、もう提出しましたか？まだ___。
「まだでしょう」は「まだ提出していないだろう」という推測と確認のニュアンスを含みます。
明日は晴れる___、ピクニックに行きましょう。
「〜でしょうから」は推量の理由を表し、「晴れるだろうから、ピクニックに行こう」という意味になります。
この問題は少し難しい___。
「〜でしょう」は相手への同意を促すニュアンスで使われることもあります。「難しいでしょう？」と確認しています。
彼はもう家に帰った___。
「〜でしょう」は確信に近い推量を表します。「もう帰っただろう」という強い推測です。
何かお手伝いできることはありません___。
「〜でしょうか」は丁寧な疑問や依頼のニュアンスを含みます。ここでは「お手伝いできることはありませんか」と尋ねています。
Choose the most natural sentence using 〜でしょう to express probability.
〜でしょう is used to express probability or conjecture. '明日は晴れるでしょう' means 'It will probably be sunny tomorrow.'
Which sentence uses 〜でしょう to seek confirmation?
〜でしょう can be used to ask for confirmation, often with a rising intonation. 'これはあなたの傘でしょう？' means 'This is your umbrella, isn't it?'
In which situation would you use 〜でしょう to make an invitation?
When combined with a negative verb form, 〜でしょう can soften an invitation. '一緒に映画に行きませんでしょう？' means 'Won't you go to the movies with me?' (a softer invitation than '行きませんか？')
「彼が来るでしょう」 definitely means 'He will come.'
「彼が来るでしょう」 expresses probability, meaning 'He will probably come' or 'He'll probably come.' It does not convey certainty.
「それは難しいでしょう」 can be used to soften a statement, implying agreement or understanding.
When used with a statement, 〜でしょう can soften it, indicating the speaker's agreement or understanding of a likely situation. 'それは難しいでしょう' could mean 'That would be difficult, wouldn't it?'
When 〜でしょう is used at the end of a question, it always implies a strong demand for an answer.
While it can seek confirmation, 〜でしょう at the end of a question often softens the question, making it less direct or demanding, similar to 'isn't it?' or 'right?'.
You are planning a farewell party for a colleague who is moving abroad. Write an email to another colleague, inviting them and suggesting a date and time, using でしょう to soften your suggestions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
〇〇さん お疲れ様です。来週、田中さんの送別会を企画しています。金曜日の夜7時くらいはどうでしょうか。きっと田中さんも喜んでくれるでしょう。ご都合が合えばぜひご参加ください。 よろしくお願いいたします。 △△
You are writing a short blog post about a local festival you attended. Describe your experience and predict what kind of impression it would leave on someone visiting for the first time, using でしょう.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
先日、地元のお祭りに行ってきました。たくさんの屋台が出ていて、とても賑やかでした。初めて訪れる人にとっては、日本の文化を深く感じられる良い機会になるでしょう。特に夜の提灯は幻想的で、きっと感動するでしょうね。
You are a customer service representative responding to an inquiry about a delayed package. Write a polite email explaining the situation and reassuring the customer, using でしょう to express probability about the new delivery time.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
お客様 この度は、ご注文の商品のお届けが遅れており、大変申し訳ございません。現在、配送状況を確認しておりますが、明日中にはお手元に届くものと思われます。ご迷惑をおかけし、誠に恐縮ですが、今しばらくお待ちいただけますでしょうか。 よろしくお願いいたします。 株式会社〇〇カスタマーサービス
この会議の目的として、最も適切なものはどれですか？
Read this passage:
明日の会議は、新しいプロジェクトについて話し合う重要な場となるでしょう。全員が資料に目を通し、意見を準備しておく必要があります。活発な議論が期待されますし、きっと良い結論が出るでしょう。
この会議の目的として、最も適切なものはどれですか？
「新しいプロジェクトについて話し合う重要な場となるでしょう」「良い結論が出るでしょう」という記述から、会議の目的は新しいプロジェクトに関する意見交換と結論を出すことだとわかります。
「新しいプロジェクトについて話し合う重要な場となるでしょう」「良い結論が出るでしょう」という記述から、会議の目的は新しいプロジェクトに関する意見交換と結論を出すことだとわかります。
この文章から読み取れる、日本の夏の特徴は何ですか？
Read this passage:
日本の夏は非常に蒸し暑いことで知られています。特に都市部では、ヒートアイランド現象も相まって、夜間でも気温が下がりにくいでしょう。観光で訪れる際は、暑さ対策を万全にすることが大切です。
この文章から読み取れる、日本の夏の特徴は何ですか？
「非常に蒸し暑いことで知られています」「夜間でも気温が下がりにくいでしょう」という記述が直接的な根拠です。
「非常に蒸し暑いことで知られています」「夜間でも気温が下がりにくいでしょう」という記述が直接的な根拠です。
この文章が最も伝えたいことは何ですか？
Read this passage:
最近の研究によると、適度な運動は心身の健康に良い影響を与えることが分かっています。特にウォーキングのような軽い運動でも、継続することでストレス軽減効果が期待できるでしょう。忙しい日々の中でも、少しずつでも運動を取り入れることをお勧めします。
この文章が最も伝えたいことは何ですか？
「適度な運動は心身の健康に良い影響を与えることが分かっています」「継続することでストレス軽減効果が期待できるでしょう」という記述がポイントです。
「適度な運動は心身の健康に良い影響を与えることが分かっています」「継続することでストレス軽減効果が期待できるでしょう」という記述がポイントです。
This sentence expresses a probability that 'he will go to Osaka on a business trip.' でしょう is used at the end of the sentence to indicate this probability.
This sentence is asking for confirmation: 'This cake, it's delicious, isn't it?' でしょう is used to seek agreement.
This is an invitation with an expectation: 'Shall we go to the movies together? It'll be fun, won't it?' でしょう adds a nuance of inviting and anticipating agreement.
Imagine you're discussing future economic trends with a colleague. Write a short paragraph in Japanese predicting a market shift, using 「〜でしょう」 to express probability and a degree of uncertainty. Focus on advanced vocabulary related to economics and finance.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
将来、テクノロジー企業の株価はさらに高騰するでしょう。しかし、その成長は持続可能ではないかもしれません。やがて調整局面を迎えるでしょうから、投資家は慎重になるべきでしょう。
You are a historical commentator. Write a sentence speculating about the motivations of a historical figure, using 「〜でしょう」 to convey your informed opinion, while acknowledging it's still an interpretation. Incorporate nuanced expressions of historical analysis.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
彼の行動は、単なる権力欲からではなく、国家の安定を第一に考えていたからでしょう。当時の政治情勢を鑑みれば、それが最善の選択だったと彼は信じていたのでしょう。
You're writing a formal email to a client, suggesting a new business strategy. Use 「〜でしょう」 to politely propose an idea, inviting their agreement or consideration. Ensure the tone is professional and persuasive.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
この新しいマーケティング戦略は、貴社の市場シェア拡大に大きく貢献するでしょう。競合他社との差別化を図る上でも、非常に有効な手段となるでしょう。詳細については、ぜひ一度お話しする機会をいただけないでしょうか。
この文章から読み取れる、会議の最大の課題は何ですか？
Read this passage:
今日の会議は、今後のプロジェクトの方向性を決定する上で非常に重要となるでしょう。しかし、参加者全員が納得する結論に達するのは、容易なことではないでしょう。各部署の利害が複雑に絡み合っているため、妥協点を見つけるのが最大の課題となるでしょう。
この文章から読み取れる、会議の最大の課題は何ですか？
文章中に「各部署の利害が複雑に絡み合っているため、妥協点を見つけるのが最大の課題となるでしょう」と明記されています。
文章中に「各部署の利害が複雑に絡み合っているため、妥協点を見つけるのが最大の課題となるでしょう」と明記されています。
筆者はAI技術の進化について、主にどのような側面を強調していますか？
Read this passage:
AI技術の進化は、私たちの生活を根本から変えるでしょう。多くの仕事が自動化され、人間はより創造的な活動に集中できるようになるでしょう。しかし、その一方で、新たな倫理的な問題や社会構造の変化も生じるでしょう。私たちは、これらの変化にどう対応していくべきか、真剣に考える時期に来ているでしょう。
筆者はAI技術の進化について、主にどのような側面を強調していますか？
筆者は、生活の変化や創造性への集中といった良い面と、倫理的問題や社会構造の変化といった課題の両方を述べています。
筆者は、生活の変化や創造性への集中といった良い面と、倫理的問題や社会構造の変化といった課題の両方を述べています。
この文章の著者が最も訴えたいことは何ですか？
Read this passage:
今回の災害は、地域のインフラに甚大な被害をもたらしたでしょう。復旧には相当な時間と費用がかかるでしょうし、住民の生活再建も困難を極めるでしょう。政府は迅速かつ大規模な支援策を講じる必要があるでしょう。
この文章の著者が最も訴えたいことは何ですか？
「政府は迅速かつ大規模な支援策を講じる必要があるでしょう」という記述から、筆者の主張が読み取れます。
「政府は迅速かつ大規模な支援策を講じる必要があるでしょう」という記述から、筆者の主張が読み取れます。
/ 108 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use 〜でしょう to politely suggest something is likely, ask for agreement, or invite someone.
- polite probability
- seeking confirmation
- making invitations
Basic Meaning
〜でしょう (deshou) fundamentally means 'probably' or 'isn't it?'. It adds a level of uncertainty or seeks confirmation.
Expressing Probability
When used to express probability, it's like saying 'I think it will...' or 'It's likely that...'. You attach it to the end of a verb, adjective, or noun in its plain form.
Seeking Confirmation
To seek confirmation, especially from someone you expect to agree, it's similar to 'right?' or 'isn't that so?'. Use a rising intonation when asking.
Making an Invitation
You can use 〜でしょう to make a gentle invitation or suggestion. For example, '行きましょう' (ikimashou) means 'Let's go'.
Related Content
More emotions words
ぼんやり
B1Vaguely; absentmindedly; dimly.
夢中
B1Absorption; engrossment; infatuation.
受け止める
B1To accept; to take; to grasp.
達成感
B1Sense of accomplishment.
ひしひしと
B1Acutely; keenly; strongly (feeling something).
適応する
B1To adapt; to adjust.
健気な
B2Brave, admirable, or plucky (especially of a weaker person).
感心な
B1Admirable; deserving admiration.
感心
B1Admiration, impression, or being impressed.
感心する
B1To be impressed; to admire.
