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います
imasu
to be (for animate objects)
猫がテーブルの下にいます
The cat is under the table.
formalinformal
To exist or be present (for animate beings, including people and animals)
友達が公園にいます
My friend is at the park.
犬が家の前にいます
The dog is in front of the house.
Used for living things. For inanimate objects, use "あります" (arimasu).
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Polite Form
Use "います" in formal and polite contexts, such as when speaking to strangers or superiors.
Gold Rule
Animate vs. Inanimate
Use "います" for living things (people, animals) and "あります" for inanimate objects.
Word Origin
Derived from the classical Japanese verb "おり" (ori), which indicated existence or presence.
Usage Notes
This is the polite form of the verb "いる" (iru). It is used in formal and polite contexts, such as when speaking to strangers or superiors.
Word Breakdown
い
polite prefix
prefixます
polite verb ending
suffix和英辞典