〜はずだ
should be ~
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜はずだ” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜はずだ」 means "should be ~". Structure: Plain + はずだ. This is a JLPT N3 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
Tone: Neutral
A general pattern; let the sentence ending and situation set the politeness level.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1修理は今日届くはずです。
しゅうり は きょう とどく はず です。
shuuri wa kyou todoku hazu desu.
The repair should arrive today.
At work
Example 2資料は今日届くはずです。
しりょう は きょう とどく はず です。
shiryou wa kyou todoku hazu desu.
The materials should arrive today.
Everyday life
Example 3機械は今日届くはずです。
きかい は きょう とどく はず です。
kikai wa kyou todoku hazu desu.
The machine should arrive today.
Everyday life
Example 4材料は今日届くはずです。
ざいりょう は きょう とどく はず です。
zairyou wa kyou todoku hazu desu.
The ingredients should arrive today.
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 4
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
The repair should arrive today.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜はずだ.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.