How to Say ‘Understood.’ in Japanese
かしこまりました。
kashikomari mashi ta
[kashikomari mashi ta]
🇯🇵 In Japan: [かしこまりました] is very polite service-language for "Certainly" or "Understood." You'll hear staff say it to customers, but you normally wouldn't use it back to them.
Phrase Breakdown
かしこまり
kashikomari
[kashikomari]
certainly; understood
A very polite customer-service expression meaning the staff understands your request.
店員さんがかしこまりと言います。
The staff says, “Certainly.”
まし
mashi
[mashi]
polite past stem
Part of かしこまりました, forming a very polite past-style response.
かしこまりましたと答えます。
I reply, “Certainly.”
た
ta
[ta]
past marker
The final part of a polite past expression.
できましたと言います。
I say, “It is ready.”
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