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でしょう/だろう (Probably)

[Plain Form]でしょう/だろう

Explanation

Indicates probability or seeks confirmation.

Formation

Statement + でしょう (polite) / だろう (casual)

Examples

明日は雨でしょう。
Ashita wa ame deshou.
It will probably rain tomorrow.
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高いでしょうね。
Takai deshou ne.
It's probably expensive, isn't it?
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知っているでしょう？
Shitte iru deshou?
You know, right?
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Usage Notes

  • でしょう: polite
  • だろう: casual/masculine
  • Often with ね for confirmation
  • Weather forecasts use でしょう

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not the same as です
  • Can express various certainty levels
  • Rising tone = confirmation seeking

Related Grammar from "Essential Expressions"

すみません (Excuse Me/Sorry)

Stand-alone
before requests

Multi-purpose polite expression.

どうぞ (Please/Go Ahead)

Stand-alone
with actions

Offering or giving permission.

よろしくお願いします

Stand-alone formal expression

Multi-purpose polite phrase for establishing good relations.

More from "Essential Expressions"