Looking up...
見ます
mimasu
to see
テレビを見ます。
I watch TV.
neutral
To perceive with the eyes; to look at or watch.
映画を見ます。
I watch a movie.
写真を見せます。
I show you a photo.
Used for intentional viewing or observation. Contrast with 聞きます (to listen) or 読みます (to read).
formal
To consider, judge, or view something in a certain way.
彼を友達と見ます。
I consider him a friend.
Often used in abstract or metaphorical contexts.
neutral
To check, inspect, or examine something.
時計を見ます。
I check the time.
Common in everyday situations like checking a clock or calendar.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Polite vs. Plain Forms
見ます (mimasu) is the polite form, while 見る (miru) is the plain form. Use 見ます in formal situations, with strangers, or when speaking to superiors. Use 見る in casual conversations with friends or family.
Gold Rule
Object Particles
When using 見ます with a direct object, always use the particle を (wo). Example: 映画を 見ます (I watch a movie).
Negative Form
The negative polite form is 見ません (mimasen). Example: テレビを 見ません (I do not watch TV).
Word Origin
From Old Japanese verb 見る (miru, 'to see'), derived from Proto-Japonic *mi- ('to see'). The polite form 見ます (mimasu) is formed by adding the polite auxiliary verb ます (masu) to the verb stem 見 (mi).
Usage Notes
1. 見ます is the polite form of 見る (to see), typically used in formal or respectful contexts. 2. When used with objects like テレビ (TV) or 映画 (movie), it implies active viewing. 3. In abstract contexts, it can mean 'to consider' or 'to regard'. 4. The causative form 見せます (misemasu) means 'to show'.
Word Breakdown
見
to see
rootます
polite auxiliary verb
suffix和英辞典