たらどう
Why don't you...?, What if you did...?
Structure
Verb［たら］+ どう + （か）？
Verb［たら］ ？
Explanation
When the conjunction particle たら is followed by the adverb どう, it is used to propose a course of action. This pattern sets up a hypothetical condition and then asks 'how about it?'. It is a common way of making suggestions and can be translated as 'how about if you...', 'why not try...', or 'what if you...'.
To form this grammar point, simply take the verb you wish to use, put it into the conditional たら form, and then add どう.
- 寒いなら、もう一枚上着を着たらどう？If you're cold, why not put on another jacket?
- 道に迷ったの？スマホで地図を見てみたらどう。Are you lost? How about you try looking at a map on your phone?
In casual situations, どう is often dropped, leaving just たら. In speech, this is indicated with a rising intonation, and in writing with a question mark. This abbreviated form conveys the same suggestive meaning.
- おなかがすいたなら、何か作ったら？If you're hungry, why not make something?
だ or か can be added after たらどう to place more emphasis on the question. They are not required for the expression to be understood.
- 明日の試験が心配なら、今夜もう一度復習したらどうだ。If you're worried about tomorrow's exam, why don't you review one more time tonight?
- この問題は難しいですね。部長に相談したらどうか。This problem is difficult. What if we consult with the department head?
Caution
Although it is used for giving suggestions, たらどう can sound critical or impatient depending on the situation. For this reason, it is important to be mindful of your tone when using it.
- 文句を言う前に、まず自分でやってみたらどう？Why don't you try doing it yourself first before complaining? (You should try it yourself first.)
Examples
疲れているみたいだから、少し休んだらどう？
You seem tired, so why don't you rest a little?
分からないことがあったら、先生に質問したらどうですか。
If there's something you don't understand, why don't you ask the teacher?
もっと早く着きたいなら、タクシーに乗ったらどう？
If you want to arrive earlier, why don't you take a taxi?
部屋が暗いから、電気をつけたらどうですか。
The room is dark, so why don't you turn on the light?
そのシャツが気に入ったなら、買ったらどう？
If you like that shirt, why don't you buy it?
道に迷ったみたいだから、地図で確認したらどうですか。
It seems like you're lost, so why don't you check the map?
喉が渇いているなら、何か飲んだらどう？
If you're thirsty, why don't you drink something?
明日の会議の準備、手伝ったらどう？
Why don't I help you prepare for tomorrow's meeting?
とても良い天気だから、散歩に行ったらどうですか。
The weather is so nice, so why don't we go for a walk?
この問題が難しいなら、田中さんに相談したらどう？
If this problem is difficult, why don't you consult with Tanaka-san?
もうすぐ雨が降りそうだから、傘を持って行ったらどうですか。
It looks like it's going to rain soon, so why don't you take an umbrella with you?
宿題を忘れないように、今すぐやったらどう？
So you don't forget your homework, why don't you do it right now?