N4 · Structured courses

Hazu Desu: Should Be, Ought To

Learn はず for "should be" based on objective reasoning — higher certainty than でしょう. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn はず for "should be" based on objective reasoning — higher certainty than でしょう.
  • Form and connection: [Plain form] はずです
  • Nuance in real use: はず marks logical inference based on known information — not blind confidence but rational judgment: "by all accounts, it should be this way."

Form and connection

[Plain form] はずです

Core Explanation

Learn はず for "should be" based on objective reasoning — higher certainty than でしょう.

Cultural Note

はず marks logical inference based on known information — not blind confidence but rational judgment: "by all accounts, it should be this way."

Practical examples

He should be here soon.
If you take this medicine, you should get better.
That person should be Japanese.

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

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[Plain form] はずです
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerHe should be here soon.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answerあの人ひとは日本人にほんじんのはずです。 ([Plain form] はずです)

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