〜ている (occupation)
state: works as
Use this pattern to shape a complete, natural Japanese thought.
Remember it
Connect the meaning to its sound: say “〜ている (occupation)” aloud once.
Understand
Build the pattern
Sentence formula
How it works
「〜ている (occupation)」 means "state: works as". Structure: Verb te-form + います. 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
At work
Example 1会社で働いています。
かいしゃではたらいています。
kaishadehataraiteimasu.
I work at the company.
At work
Example 2銀行で働いています。
ぎんこうではたらいています。
ginkoudehataraiteimasu.
I work at the bank.
At work
Example 3公園で働いています。
こうえんではたらいています。
kouendehataraiteimasu.
I work at the park.
At work
Example 4町で働いています。
まちではたらいています。
machidehataraiteimasu.
I work at the town.
At work
Example 5レストランで働いています。
れすとらんではたらいています。
resutorandehataraiteimasu.
I work at the restaurant.
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 work at the company.
The answer is hidden. Try to use 〜ている (occupation).
Remember tomorrow
Save this pattern as a flashcard
Review the meaning and formula later so today’s lesson moves into long-term memory.