ます-Form (Polite Verbs)
The foundation of polite verb conjugation.
Speaking Politely
In Japan, the way you speak changes depending on who you are talking to. When you meet someone for the first time, speak to a teacher, or talk to a stranger, you should use polite language.
まいにち、にほんごをべんきょうします。
毎日、日本語を勉強します。
I study Japanese every day.
How to form the Masu-form
To make a verb polite, you take the dictionary form and conjugate it into the 'masu' stem. For beginners, it is easiest to learn the conjugation patterns by verb group.
Tip
Examples in Context
See how the masu-form functions in common daily sentences.
私は水を飲みます。
I drink water.
明日、映画を見ます。
I will watch a movie tomorrow.
ここで仕事をします。
I work here.
私はパンを【食べます】。
Hint: The polite form of 'taberu' (to eat)
I eat bread.
When to use Masu-form
The masu-form is 'polite' (teineigo). It is appropriate for almost any situation involving people you don't know well, superiors, or in public settings.
Masu vs Dictionary Form
食べます
Polite (used with strangers/superiors)
ごはんを食べます。
食べる
Casual (used with friends/family)
ごはん食べる？
Which situation is best for using the masu-form?
- Talking to your best friend
- ✓ Talking to your boss
- Talking to your pet
- Talking to yourself
The masu-form is polite and should be used with superiors, teachers, or people you do not know well.
Beyond the Basics
The masu-form is not just for affirmative statements.
Negative and Past Tenses
Lesson Summary
The masu-form is the essential building block for polite Japanese. By mastering this conjugation, you can communicate respectfully in almost any standard social situation.