How to Say ‘Can work (polite)’ in Japanese
働けます
hatarake masu
[hah-tah-rah-keh mah-soo]
💬 Usage Tip: [働けます] is the potential form meaning “I am able to work.” Polite and interview-friendly.
🇯🇵 In Japan: In caregiver jobs, they may also ask about night shifts; you can add conditions after [働けます].
Phrase Breakdown
働け
hatarake
[hah-tah-rah-keh]
can work (potential form stem)
From 働く (to work); 働ける/働けます means “be able to work,” used for availability.
来月から働けますと伝えました。
I told them, “I can work starting next month.”
ます
masu
[mah-soo]
polite verb ending “-masu”
Adds politeness to the verb; 働けます is the polite form used in interviews.
面接では働けますのようにます形で答えます。
In interviews, you answer in the -masu form like “働けます.”
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager