Introduction
In this post, we will learn how to use -ましょう (mashou) and -ましょうか (mashou ka) to make suggestions or propose plans in Japanese. These expressions are similar to saying “let’s” or “shall we” in English.
What It Means
When you take the long form of a verb, which is also known as the polite form ending with ます (masu), and replace the ます (masu) ending with ましょう (mashou) or ましょうか (mashou ka), you can suggest doing something together.
When You Use It
Use ましょう (mashou) when you want to confidently suggest a plan of action, like saying “let’s” in English. Use ましょうか (mashou ka) when you want to propose an action and check if the other person agrees, like saying “shall we.”
Examples
Examples
- 一緒に学校に行きましょう。(Issho ni gakkou ni ikimashou.) – Let’s go to school together.
- あそこで昼ご飯を食べましょうか。(Asoko de hirugohan o tabemashouka.) – Shall we have lunch over there?
How to Answer When Asked ～ましょうか (mashou ka)
When someone asks you 〜ましょうか (mashou ka), here are simple ways to respond:
Yes:
- (はい、) そうしましょう。(Hai, sou shimashou.) – Yes, let’s do that.
No:
- ちょっと… (Chotto…) – Umm… (used to politely decline or show hesitation)
Note
Remember, ましょう (mashou) is used to confidently suggest an action, while ましょうか ( mashou ka) is more of a polite suggestion or a way to confirm the other person’s willingness.
Conclusion
Using -ましょう (mashou) and -ましょうか (mashouka) helps you make suggestions and propose plans in Japanese.
