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

How to Say ‘Have / there is’ in Japanese

あります

ari masu

[ah-ree mahss]

💬 Usage Tip: [あります] is the polite form used for things, not people. It can mean "there is" or "I have," depending on context.

🇯🇵 In Japan: Japanese often leaves out the subject, so one word like [あります] can do a lot of work.

Phrase Breakdown

あり

ari

[ah-ree]

exist; have

Stem of あります, used for existence or possession of non-living things.

Example

書類がありました。

There were documents.

ます

masu

[mahss]

polite ending

A polite verb ending often used in formal speech.

Example

時間があります。

There is time.

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