〜てあります
has been done (state)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜てあります” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜てあります」 means "has been done (state)". Structure: Verb te-form + あります. 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: Polite
A safe choice for everyday conversations, shops, school, and the workplace.
Use
Hear it in real life
Everyday life
Example 1故障に名前が書いてあります。
こしょう に なまえ が かいて あります。
koshou ni namae ga kaite arimasu.
A name is written on the breakdown.
Everyday life
Example 2お釣りに名前が書いてあります。
おつり に なまえ が かいて あります。
otsuri ni namae ga kaite arimasu.
A name is written on the change (money).
Everyday life
Example 3畳に名前が書いてあります。
たたみ に なまえ が かいて あります。
tatami ni namae ga kaite arimasu.
A name is written on the tatami mat.
Everyday life
Example 4紙に名前が書いてあります。
かみ に なまえ が かいて あります。
kami ni namae ga kaite arimasu.
A name is written on the paper.
Everyday life
Example 5草に名前が書いてあります。
くさ に なまえ が かいて あります。
kusa ni namae ga kaite arimasu.
A name is written on the grass.
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
A name is written on the breakdown.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜てあります.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.