1.
what should I do, what am I going to do
An expression of anxiety or indecision when faced with a problem or unexpected situation. Can be a genuine question or a rhetorical expression of distress.
The volitional form of どうする, used as an expression of anxiety or indecision. It can be a genuine question seeking advice or a rhetorical expression of distress, and can stand alone as a complete utterance.
Common patterns
- どうしよう、どうしよう: repeated to express panic
- どうしようもない: there's nothing that can be done, hopeless
- どうしようかな: wondering what to do (talking to oneself)
Forms
- どうしよう: casual (most common)
- どうしましょう: polite form
- どうしようか: softer, more deliberative, often to a companion
Similar words
- どうすればいい: "what should I do?" (asking for practical advice rather than expressing alarm)