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ましょう is a Japanese auxiliary verb used to make polite suggestions, offers, or invitations to take action, often in collaboration with the listener. It attaches to the ます-stem of a verb and translates as "let’s" or "shall we" in English. This form fosters a sense of inclusivity, making it ideal for group activities or shared decisions. Its polite tone suits semi-formal and formal settings, such as workplace discussions or customer interactions, while remaining approachable enough for casual conversations.
Beyond its use for group actions, ましょう also expresses personal determination, allowing the speaker to show willingness or resolve to perform an action alone. Whether inviting collaboration or conveying individual commitment, ましょう strikes a balance between politeness and proactivity, reflecting the Japanese preference for harmonious communication and courtesy in speech.
Structure
Verb［ます］+ ましょう
Level
N5
Key uses
1. Making polite group suggestions
ましょう is commonly used to suggest activities or tasks to be done together, creating a sense of shared action and cooperation.
[ Additional Insight ]
This form adds a polite and collaborative tone, making it suitable for workplace discussions, team activities, or polite social gatherings. It's a softer and more engaging way to propose actions.
2. Offering to take responsibility (ましょうか)
The question form, ましょうか, is often used to offer help or support, indicating the speaker’s willingness to assist the listener.
[ Additional Insight ]
This is an essential phrase in Japanese culture where offering help politely is highly valued. It balances proactivity with respect for the listener's choice.
3. Encouraging participation in collaborative tasks
This form is ideal for encouraging group involvement in tasks, commonly used in collaborative environments like work or study groups.
[ Additional Insight ]
By using ましょう, the speaker fosters a collaborative environment, making it ideal for brainstorming sessions, planning, or group discussions. It encourages active participation without sounding commanding.
4. Creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere
ましょう is useful for setting a welcoming tone that invites others to participate in a friendly, non-forceful manner.
[ Additional Insight ]
This usage promotes a friendly and accommodating atmosphere. It’s great for informal gatherings or suggesting plans in a way that respects others’ input.
Comparisons
1. ませんか
Both ましょう and ませんか are used to make polite suggestions, but ませんか is softer and more indirect, often used to invite or seek the listener’s agreement. ましょう is more assertive, suggesting a joint decision already leaning toward action. Use ませんか when you want to politely propose an idea and leave room for the listener’s input.
2. う・よう (casual "let’s")
う・よう is a less formal way to say "let’s" and is commonly used in casual settings among close friends or family members. In contrast, ましょう is polite and formal, suitable for workplace or respectful contexts. Use う・よう for casual and relaxed situations.
Examples
016A
016B
016C
016D
016E
016F
016G
016H