〜でした
was (polite past)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜でした” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜でした」 means "was (polite past)". Structure: Noun + でした. This is a JLPT N5 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昨日は休みでした。
きのうはやすみでした。
kinouhayasumideshita.
Yesterday was a holiday.
At home
Example 2昨日は朝でした。
きのうはあさでした。
kinouhaasadeshita.
Yesterday was morning.
Everyday life
Example 3昨日は来週でした。
きのうはらいしゅうでした。
kinouharaishuudeshita.
Yesterday was next week.
Everyday life
Example 4昨日は今年でした。
きのうはことしでした。
kinouhakotoshideshita.
Yesterday was this year.
Everyday life
Example 5昨日は誕生日でした。
きのうはたんじょうびでした。
kinouhatanjoubideshita.
Yesterday was birthday.
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
Yesterday was a holiday.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜でした.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.