う・よう (volitional)

let's, shall, I will

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The volitional form in Japanese, expressed as う for Group 1 (う-verbs) and よう for Group 2 (る-verbs) and irregular verbs, is used to indicate a will or intention to perform an action. It often conveys a sense of "let’s," "shall," or "I will" in English, depending on the context.

This form is versatile and appears in both suggestions and self-directed statements. It is frequently used to invite others to join an action (e.g., "Let’s go"), to express personal determination (e.g., "I’ll do it"), or to encourage collaboration. In informal speech, the volitional form communicates a speaker’s resolve or intent directly. In polite speech, it is commonly paired with structures like ～ましょう to include others in a respectful and inclusive way.

The volitional form also plays a key role in conditional or hypothetical constructions, such as ～ようと思う (to express plans or intentions) and ～ようとする (to describe attempts or efforts). Its nuanced usage makes it a fundamental tool for expressing initiative and determination in Japanese communication.

Structure

［る¹］Verb → 見る + よう

［る⁵］Verb → 座る + ろう

［う］Verb → 歌う + おう

［く］Verb → 歩く + こう

［す］Verb → 話す + そう

［つ］Verb → 打つ + とう

［ぬ］Verb → 死ぬ + のう

［ぶ］Verb → 飛ぶ + ぼう

［む］Verb → 休む + もう

［ぐ］Verb → 泳ぐ + ごう

Exceptions:

する → しよう

くる → こよう

Level

Key uses

1. Making suggestions or invitations

The volitional form う・よう is commonly used to suggest actions or invite others to join in an activity. It conveys a sense of collaboration or agreement.

[ Additional Insight ]

This form is a friendly and casual way to propose plans among friends or peers. It creates a sense of inclusivity, emphasizing group participation or mutual decision-making.

2. Expressing personal determination

The volitional form can also reflect personal resolve or determination to take action, often used as an internal monologue or a declaration of intent.

[ Additional Insight ]

When used alone or with a strong tone, this form highlights personal motivation or resolve. It’s ideal for moments of self-reflection, goal-setting, or expressing firm decisions.

3. Politeness with ましょう

The polite form ましょう is derived from the volitional form and is often used in formal or polite settings to make suggestions or offers.

[ Additional Insight ]

～ましょう adds a layer of formality and respect, making it suitable for workplace conversations, group discussions, or situations requiring courteous language. It’s often used by superiors or in collaborative environments.

4. Inviting or encouraging in informal settings

In casual contexts, the volitional form serves as a way to encourage someone or casually invite them to participate. It creates a light and conversational tone.

[ Additional Insight ]

This informal usage makes the interaction feel relaxed and approachable. It’s particularly effective in creating a friendly atmosphere among close friends or family members.

5. Used with と思う to express plans or intentions

The volitional form is often paired with と思う to articulate plans, intentions, or considerations about future actions.

[ Additional Insight ]

This construction softens the expression, indicating that the speaker is considering or planning the action rather than firmly deciding it. It’s ideal for expressing tentative ideas or sharing future intentions without sounding too rigid.

Comparisons

1. たい

While たい expresses a desire to do something, the volitional form (う・よう) focuses on intention or suggestion. Use たい when sharing personal desires and the volitional form when proposing or deciding to act.

2. Imperative form (command)

The volitional form is inclusive and inviting, creating a sense of collaboration, while the imperative form is forceful and commanding, often used in strict or urgent situations. Use the volitional form to encourage or suggest actions and the imperative form for direct orders.