Expectations with はずだ
Learn how はずだ expresses a confident expectation based on evidence, logic, or reliable information.
What はずだ Means
はずだ means 'should,' 'is expected to,' or 'ought to be the case' based on some reason. It is not a moral command. It is a logical conclusion from what the speaker knows.
田中さんはもう駅に着いているはずです。
Tanaka is expected to have arrived at the station already.
The speaker has a reason, such as the schedule or departure time.
このかばんは五千円のはずだ。
This bag is supposed to cost 5,000 yen.
The expectation comes from prior knowledge, not a rule.
Practice guides for this lesson
Use these hub pages to connect this lesson with related reading practice and grammar paths.
N3 Japanese grammar lessons
Use the N3 Japanese grammar lessons guide to connect this lesson with related reading practice.
Open guideBeki da Japanese grammar practice
Use the Beki da Japanese grammar practice guide to connect this lesson with related reading practice.
Open guideJapanese grammar practice
Use the Japanese grammar practice guide to connect this lesson with related reading practice.
Open guide