Introduction: The Versatile Power of “Deshou”
If you’ve been learning Japanese, you’ve probably heard “deshou” (でしょう) popping up in conversations, anime, or even textbooks. But what does it really mean?
Unlike direct statements, “deshou” adds a layer of uncertainty, politeness, or speculation—making it essential for natural-sounding Japanese. Whether you’re guessing the weather, making a soft suggestion, or seeking agreement, mastering “deshou” will make your Japanese sound more nuanced and native-like.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✔ What “deshou” means (and how it differs from similar expressions)
✔ When & how to use it (with real-life examples)
✔ Common mistakes learners make (and how to avoid them)
✔ Practical applications (so you can start using it today)
Let’s dive in!
What Does “Deshou” Mean?
“Deshou” (でしょう) is a softening expression used for:
✅ Guesses & predictions (when you’re not 100% sure)
✅ Seeking agreement (similar to “right?” or “isn’t it?”)
✅ Polite suggestions (softer than commands)
Keyphrase: “deshou in Japanese”
Examples in Context:
- Prediction:
- 明日は雨でしょう。 (Ashita wa ame deshou.) → “It will probably rain tomorrow.”
- Seeking agreement:
- 美味しいでしょう？ (Oishii deshou?) → “It’s delicious, right?”
- Soft suggestion:
- 一緒に行きましょう？ (Issho ni ikimashou?) → “Shall we go together?”
How to Use “Deshou” Correctly
1. Making Educated Guesses
When you’re not entirely certain but have a reasonable assumption, “deshou” softens your statement.
- 寒いでしょう？ (Samui deshou?) → “It’s cold, isn’t it?” (You feel cold and assume the other person does too.)
- 彼はもう寝ているでしょう。 (Kare wa mou nete iru deshou.) → “He’s probably already asleep.”
🔹 Pro Tip: For stronger certainty, use “darou” (だろう)—a more casual (and sometimes masculine) version.
2. Seeking Confirmation or Agreement
Similar to English tag questions (“…, right?”), “deshou” invites agreement.
- この映画、面白いでしょう？ (Kono eiga, omoshiroi deshou?) → “This movie is interesting, right?”
- 疲れたでしょう？ (Tsukareta deshou?) → “You’re tired, aren’t you?”
🔹 Common Mistake: Don’t confuse “deshou” with “desu ka?”—the latter is a direct question, while “deshou?” implies you expect agreement.
3. Making Polite Suggestions
Instead of commanding someone, “deshou” makes suggestions sound friendlier.
- もう帰りましょう？ (Mou kaerimashou?) → “Shall we go home now?”
- コーヒーを飲みましょう。 (Koohii o nomimashou.) → “Let’s drink coffee.”
🔹 Insight: This is why you’ll often hear “mashou” (ましょう) in invitations—it’s the volitional form + “deshou” influence.
“Deshou” vs. Similar Expressions
1. “Deshou” vs. “Kamoshirenai” (かもしれない)
Both express uncertainty, but:
- “Deshou” → More confident guess (70-80% sure)
- “Kamoshirenai” → Less sure (50% or lower)
Example:
- 彼は来るでしょう。 (Kare wa kuru deshou.) → “He’ll probably come.”
- 彼は来るかもしれない。 (Kare wa kuru kamoshirenai.) → “He might come.”
2. “Deshou” vs. “Darou” (だろう)
- “Deshou” → Polite, neutral
- “Darou” → Casual, sometimes masculine
Example:
- 明日は晴れるでしょう。 (Ashita wa hareru deshou.) → “It’ll probably be sunny tomorrow.” (Polite)
- 明日は晴れるだろう。 (Ashita wa hareru darou.) → “It’ll probably be sunny tomorrow.” (Casual)
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
❌ Overusing “deshou” for strong statements
- Incorrect: これは本です でしょう。 (Kore wa hon desu deshou.) → Wrong! (Don’t mix “desu” + “deshou”)
- Correct: これは本でしょう。 (Kore wa hon deshou.) → “This is probably a book.”
❌ Using “deshou” when certainty is high
- Incorrect: 私は日本人でしょう。 (Watashi wa Nihonjin deshou.) → “I’m probably Japanese.” (If you are Japanese, this sounds odd.)
- Correct: 私は日本人です。 (Watashi wa Nihonjin desu.) → “I am Japanese.”
Practical Tips for Mastering “Deshou”
- Listen to Native Speakers – Pay attention to how “deshou” is used in anime, dramas, or podcasts.
- Practice with Real-Life Scenarios – Try guessing the weather, someone’s feelings, or future events.
- Use It in Conversations – Start with simple phrases like “疲れたでしょう？” (“You’re tired, right?”)
🔹 Bonus Insight: In Kansai dialect, “yaろ” (やろ) is often used instead of “darou”!
Final Thoughts
“Deshou” is a subtle yet powerful tool in Japanese—it helps you sound more natural, polite, and nuanced. Whether you’re making a guess, seeking agreement, or giving a suggestion, mastering “deshou” will take your Japanese fluency to the next level.
Now, 練習しましょうか？ (Renshuu shimashou ka?) → “Shall we practice?”
Want More Japanese Grammar Tips?
Check out these related posts:
- “Darou” vs. “Deshou”: What’s the Difference?
- How to Make Polite Suggestions in Japanese
- Mastering Japanese Guessing Phrases
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