〜でしょう

I suppose...; probably...; I guess...

1. Overview

「〜でしょう」is a Japanese expression used to indicate a degree of uncertainty or to make a conjecture. It can convey the speaker's assumption or opinion about a situation, often seeking confirmation or agreement from the listener.

2. Structure

• Grammatical Structure:

  • Verb (dictionary form) + でしょう
  • い-adjective (dictionary form) + でしょう
  • な-adjective + でしょう
  • Noun + でしょう

• Explanation: This structure expresses a level of conjecture or speculation, suggesting that the speaker believes something is likely true but is not completely certain.

3. Usage Explanation

• Connection: Commonly used in conversation to express assumptions or to soften statements, making them more polite and less direct.

• Translation: It can be translated as "I suppose...," "probably...," or "I guess..."

4. Example Sentences

1. 明日は雨が降るでしょう。
   It will probably rain tomorrow.

2. 彼は来ないでしょう。
   I guess he won't come.

3. この料理は美味しいでしょう。
   This dish is probably delicious.

4. 彼女は忙しいでしょう。
   She is likely busy.

5. あなたは日本に行ったことがあるでしょう。
   You have probably been to Japan.

5. Alternative Grammar

• 〜でしょうか: A more polite form used to seek confirmation or ask a question.
  • Example: 彼は来るでしょうか？
    Will he come?

6. Related Grammar

• 〜だろう: A more casual or masculine form of「〜でしょう」.
  • Example: 明日は晴れるだろう。
    It will probably be sunny tomorrow.

7. Notes

• Context: 「〜でしょう」is used to express conjecture in various situations, making it appropriate for both formal and informal conversations.

• Tone: This expression conveys a sense of uncertainty and politeness, making it suitable for conversations with strangers or in formal contexts.

8. Summary

「〜でしょう」is a useful grammatical structure for expressing conjecture or assumption about a situation, helping to communicate uncertainty and politeness in conversation.