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

How to Say ‘That's a problem.’ in Japanese

困りました。

komari mashi ta

[koh-MAH-ree mah-shee tah]

💬 Usage Tip: 困りました is in the past form, but it describes how you feel right now: "I'm stuck."

Phrase Breakdown

困り

komari

[koh-MAH-ree]

be troubled; be in a fix

Stem of 困る, to be at a loss or have a problem.

Example

お金がなくて困ります。

I'm in trouble with no money.

まし

mashi

[mah-shee]

polite past stem

Part of the polite past ending in a verb phrase.

Example

昨日は多くのことを学びました。

I learned many things yesterday.

た

ta

[tah]

past tense ending

This ending completes the polite past tense form.

Example

空席がございまし た。

There were vacant seats.

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 feedback on what you say out loud

Spaced Repetition

Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice

Immersive Roleplaying

Practice real conversations with AI partners

Lessons for Your Situation

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 made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”

Mia S., 25, English Teacher

“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”

James O., 28, Remote Worker

“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