N2 · Structured courses

～to Sureba / Toshitara: If We Assume

Learn to sureba/toshitara for hypothetical conditions. 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 to sureba/toshitara for hypothetical conditions.
  • Form and connection: [Nounだ/Plain form] とすれば
  • Nuance in real use: とすれば/としたら opens up a hypothetical space — it lets you temporarily leave reality to explore an "if" world. Japanese business discussions frequently use this to test various possibilities.

Form and connection

[Nounだ/Plain form] とすれば

Core Explanation

Learn to sureba/toshitara for hypothetical conditions.

Cultural Note

とすれば/としたら opens up a hypothetical space — it lets you temporarily leave reality to explore an "if" world. Japanese business discussions frequently use this to test various possibilities.

Practical examples

What will we do if he doesn't come?
If this is true, it's a serious matter.
If there wasn't enough time, it can't be helped.

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[Nounだ/Plain form] とすれば
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerWhat will we do if he doesn't come?
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer時間じかんがなかったとしたら仕方しかたがない。 ([Nounだ/Plain form] とすれば)

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