〜ました
polite past verb
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜ました” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ました」 means "polite past verb". Structure: Verb stem + ました. 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
At school
Example 1昨日勉強をしました。
きのうべんきょうをしました。
kinoubenkyouoshimashita.
I did study yesterday.
Everyday life
Example 2昨日質問をしました。
きのうしつもんをしました。
kinoushitsumon'oshimashita.
I did question yesterday.
Shopping & services
Example 3昨日買い物をしました。
きのうかいものをしました。
kinoukaimonooshimashita.
I did shopping yesterday.
Everyday life
Example 4昨日洗濯をしました。
きのうせんたくをしました。
kinousentakuoshimashita.
I did laundry yesterday.
Everyday life
Example 5昨日電話をしました。
きのうでんわをしました。
kinoudenwaoshimashita.
I did telephone call yesterday.
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 did study yesterday.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ました.
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.