1.
should, ought to, must
An auxiliary expression attached to the dictionary form of verbs to indicate obligation, duty, or strong recommendation. Often used for giving advice or stating what is expected.
べき expresses obligation or strong recommendation, equivalent to "should" or "ought to."
Conjugation
- Verb dictionary form + べきだ: should do
- する → すべき / するべき (both acceptable)
- べきだった: should have done (past)
- べきではない: should not
Register
- べきだ: standard
- べきである: more formal, written
- べきです: polite
Usage
- Used for moral obligations, duties, or strong advice
- Can sound preachy if overused
- More formal than 〜たほうがいい