How to Say ‘Came’ in Japanese
来ました
ki mashi ta
[kee mah-shee tah]
💬 Usage Tip: [来ました] is the polite past of [来る]. For “I’m from (as background),” [出身です] is also common in interviews.
🇯🇵 In Japan: In business contexts, [参りました] is a more humble “came,” but [来ました] is fine for most learners.
Phrase Breakdown
来
ki
[kee]
Came (polite past)
Polite past form of 来る (くる). Used for “I came (from…)” and sometimes “I have come (to Japan).”
日本に来ましたのは二年前です。
I came to Japan two years ago.
まし
mashi
[mah-shee]
(polite past stem part)
まし is part of the polite past form ました. It attaches to a verb stem to make polite past tense.
来ましたとましを丁寧に発音します。
I pronounce the “mashi” in “kimashita” politely/clearly.
た
ta
[tah]
(past marker)
た completes the past tense (ました). It indicates the action is completed in the past.
来ましたのたをはっきり言います。
I clearly say the “ta” in “kimashita.”
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