Learning objectives
- Lesson goals: Learn hazu datta for "was supposed to happen but didn't" — expressing disappointment or surprise.
- Form and connection: [Plain form] はずだった
- Nuance in real use: はずだった captures those "should have been but wasn't" moments — a gentle protest against a world that didn't follow logic. In Japanese, it's one of the most elegant ways to express disappointment.
Form and connection
Core Explanation
Learn hazu datta for "was supposed to happen but didn't" — expressing disappointment or surprise.
Cultural Note
Practical examples
Common pitfalls
Build the base form before adding the pattern
Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.
Match politeness to the situation
The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.
Practice and answers
Show answer
[Plain form] はずだったShow answer
He was supposed to come too.Show answer
もっと簡単かんたんなはずだった。 ([Plain form] はずだった)Continue learning
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