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

How to Say ‘I understand.’ in Japanese

わかりました。

wakari mashi ta

[wah-kah-ree mah-shee tah]

💬 Usage Tip: [わかりました] is a polite and useful workplace phrase meaning "understood." Safer and more professional than a casual "okay."

🇯🇵 In Japan: In Japanese work culture, clearly acknowledging instructions is important. This phrase shows reliability and attention.

Phrase Breakdown

わかり

wakari

[wah-kah-ree]

understood

From わかる, meaning to understand; here it forms part of a polite acknowledgment.

Example

内容はわかりました。

I understood the details.

まし

mashi

[mah-shee]

polite verb ending part

Part of the polite past form used in responses like わかりました.

Example

確認しました。

I confirmed it.

ta

[tah]

past tense ending

Marks that the polite action or state is completed.

Example

準備した。

I prepared it.

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