〜でございます
polite copula (keigo)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜でございます” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜でございます」 means "polite copula (keigo)". Structure: Noun + でございます. This is a JLPT N4 pattern — the examples below slot different everyday and workplace words into the same structure so you can see how it behaves. Learn the structure, then swap in your own words.
When to use it
Read the example aloud, then replace one detail with something from your own life.
Tone: Business polite
Use with customers, senior colleagues, or anyone who deserves extra respect.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1こちらが故障でございます。
こちら が こしょう で ございます。
kochira ga koshou de gozaimasu.
This is the breakdown. (very polite)
Everyday life
Example 2こちらがお釣りでございます。
こちら が おつり で ございます。
kochira ga otsuri de gozaimasu.
This is the change (money). (very polite)
Everyday life
Example 3こちらが畳でございます。
こちら が たたみ で ございます。
kochira ga tatami de gozaimasu.
This is the tatami mat. (very polite)
Everyday life
Example 4こちらが紙でございます。
こちら が かみ で ございます。
kochira ga kami de gozaimasu.
This is the paper. (very polite)
Everyday life
Example 5こちらが草でございます。
こちら が くさ で ございます。
kochira ga kusa de gozaimasu.
This is the grass. (very polite)
Make it yours
Choose one example. Replace one person, place, object, or time with a detail from your life, then say the new sentence aloud.
Recall
Test your memory
Recall practice
Can you say it?
1 of 5
Read the situation, look away from the answer, and say the Japanese aloud.
Your situation
This is the breakdown. (very polite)
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜でございます.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.