N3

Expectations with はずだ

Learn how はずだ expresses a confident expectation based on evidence, logic, or reliable information.

Use はずだ to express a logical expectation.Distinguish はずだ from べきだ and かもしれない.Read evidence-based conclusions accurately.

Guided study

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.

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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.

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