〜じゃないです
is not (polite negative)
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜じゃないです” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜じゃないです」 means "is not (polite negative)". Structure: Noun + じゃないです. 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それは水じゃないです。
それはみずじゃないです。
sorehamizujanaidesu.
That is not water.
Everyday life
Example 2それはかばんじゃないです。
それはかばんじゃないです。
sorehakabanjanaidesu.
That is not a bag.
Everyday life
Example 3それは時計じゃないです。
それはとけいじゃないです。
sorehatokeijanaidesu.
That is not a clock.
Everyday life
Example 4それはご飯じゃないです。
それはごはんじゃないです。
sorehagohanjanaidesu.
That is not a rice.
Everyday life
Example 5それは野菜じゃないです。
それはやさいじゃないです。
sorehayasaijanaidesu.
That is not a vegetables.
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
That is not water.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜じゃないです.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.