〜ません
polite negative verb
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜ません” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ません」 means "polite negative verb". Structure: Verb stem + ません. 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
At school
Example 1今日は勉強をしません。
きょうはべんきょうをしません。
kyouhabenkyouoshimasen.
I will not do study today.
Everyday life
Example 2今日は質問をしません。
きょうはしつもんをしません。
kyouhashitsumon'oshimasen.
I will not do question today.
Shopping & services
Example 3今日は買い物をしません。
きょうはかいものをしません。
kyouhakaimonooshimasen.
I will not do shopping today.
Everyday life
Example 4今日は洗濯をしません。
きょうはせんたくをしません。
kyouhasentakuoshimasen.
I will not do laundry today.
Everyday life
Example 5今日は電話をしません。
きょうはでんわをしません。
kyouhadenwaoshimasen.
I will not do telephone call today.
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
I will not do study today.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ません.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.