How to Say ‘Did / happened (polite, past)’ in Japanese
しました
shi mashi ta
[shee mah-shee tah]
💬 Usage Tip: [しました] is polite past of [する]. In [どうしました？], it means “what happened?” (not “what did you do?”).
🇯🇵 In Japan: This is a common “problem-check” phrase at the door; answer gently to keep things smooth.
Phrase Breakdown
し
shi
[shee]
did (polite past)
Part of 「しました」 (“did”). In 「どうしました？」 it forms a polite “What happened?” question.
どうしました？と聞かれて、説明しました。
When I was asked 'What happened?', I explained.
まし
mashi
[mah-shee]
(polite verb ending part)
Part of the polite past form 「しました」. Not used alone; it helps make a polite verb form.
どうしました？と聞かれて困りました。
When asked 'What happened?', I was troubled.
た
ta
[tah]
past tense marker
「た」 marks past tense in Japanese. Here it completes 「しました」 (“did”).
昨日は注意しました。
Yesterday I warned them.
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