Tsugi wa nani o sureba iidesuka?

“…ba ii” and “…ra ii”

In this lesson, we will learn about the phrases “sureba ii” and “shitara ii”. Both phrases are used to express the idea of “it would be better to do” or “you should do.” They utilize the conditional forms “…ba” and “…ra”.

Usage and Meaning

  • “Sureba ii”: Uses the “…ba” form to suggest a future action that is incomplete. It is similar to saying “it would be good to do” or “you should do” in English.
  • “Shitara ii”: Uses the “…ra” form to suggest a completed action. It conveys a similar meaning to “it would be good if you did” or “you should do” in English.

Differences in Nuance

  • “Sureba“: Indicates an action that is yet to be completed. It suggests a hypothetical or future action.
    • Example: Nani o sureba ii desu ka? – What should I do?
  • “Shitara”: Indicates an action that has been completed. It often suggests that after completing an action, it would be beneficial.
    • Example: Nani o shitara ii desu ka? – What should I do?

Examples

  1. General Suggestions:
    • Sureba:
      • Motto benkyou sureba ii – It would be better to study more.
    • Shitara:
      • Motto benkyou shitara ii – It would be better if you studied more.
  2. Asking for Advice:
    • Sureba:
      • Dou sureba ii desu ka? – What should I do?
    • Shitara:
      • Dou shitara ii desu ka? – What should I do?
  3. Offering Help:
    • Sureba:
      • Tetsudaeba ii? – Should I help?
    • Shitara:
      • Tetsudattara ii? – Should I help?

Expression

Yasai o zenbu kirimashita. Tsugi wa nani o shitara iidesuka?

Kaze o hiitandesuka? Kusuri o nondara iidesu yo.

Daietto o sureba ii no wa wakatteimasu ga, okashi ga tomarimasen.