PrettyFluent
This is just a lesson preview. Get the interactive lesson free on PrettyFluent
✅

How to Say ‘Is in a state of; has (a certain quality)’ in Japanese

しています

shi te i masu

[shi te i masu]

💬 Usage Tip: With words like [すっきり], [しています] often means "has that quality" or "is in that state," not necessarily "is doing." You'll see the same pattern in [緊張しています] "is tense" and [似ています] "is similar."

Phrase Breakdown

し

shi

[shi]

do; make

The verb する in te-form stem sequence here, used as part of しています.

Example

すっきりしています。

It is crisp and refreshing.

て

te

[te]

and; -ing form connector

The te-form connector used in verb patterns like しています.

Example

すっきりしています。

It is crisp and refreshing.

います

i masu

is / am / are (ongoing state)

With て-form, shows an action is in progress or a continuing state.

Example

仕事をしています。

I am working.

Words in this phrase

い

i

[i]

to be; to exist

Part of the helper verb いる in the progressive or resulting-state expression ています.

Example

すっきりしています。

It is crisp and refreshing.

ます

masu

[masu]

polite verb ending

Polite ending completing the expression しています.

Example

すっきりしています。

It is crisp and refreshing.

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

Download PrettyFluent on the App StoreGet Full Lesson

What 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