What Does “Wakarimashita” Mean in Japanese? A Simple Guide for Beginners

Wakarimashita Mean in Japanese: When and How to Use It Correctly

If you’re studying Japanese or thinking about going to Japan, one of the most common expressions that you will hear is “wakarimashita” (わかりました). It is an important expression to facilitate and keep conversations going, and it is both polite and useful.

Meaning of Wakarimashita

“Wakarimashita” is the past tense of the verb “wakaru” (分かる) which means “to understand” or “to know”. So it “wakarimashita” translates to:

👉 “I understood,” “understood,” or “got it.”

As expressed above, it is often used to acknowledge that you have received instructions or have a conversation with someone.

________________________________________

Using the Phrase “Wakarimashita”

This form is appropriate in both formal and informal settings. Below are scenarios illustrating its application:

1. In Professional Environment or Formal Occasions:

    o Boss: “Please have the report ready by tomorrow.”

    o You: “はい、わかりました。”

(Got it / Yes, I understood.)

2. In an Eatery or as a Service Provider:

    o Customer: “Can I get this without onions?”

    o Staff: “かしこまりました。わかりました。”

(Certainly, understood.)

3. Teaching and Learning Settings:

    o Teacher: “Do you all understand the homework assigned?”

vo Student: “はい、わかりました。”

(Yes, I understood.)

________________________________________

Differences Between Wakarimashita and Wakarimasu

    • わかります (wakarimasu) is applicable when you intend to say: “I understand.”

    • わかりました (wakarimashita) translates as the past form: “I understood.”

“Wakarimasu” is more applicable to situations where you intend to say you comprehend something. “Wakarimashita,” on the other hand, serves better when confirming comprehension after receiving an explanation or instruction.

________________________________________

Informal Alternatives

In a relaxed setting with company, you may use the informal variant:

👉 わかった (wakatta) – “Got it” / “Understood”

Example:

    • Friend: “Let’s meet at 5.”

    • You: “うん、わかった。”

(Okay, got it.)v

________________________________________

Conclusion

With its different forms of use, the phrase “Wakarimashita” is an important polite utterance to use in Japanese culture, especially in formal or business situations. It is a courteous way to assure someone that information has been properly understood. Knowing this word will not only enhance your communication skills while speaking Japanese, but also help you appear polite and culturally considerate.

Stay informed, Stay ahead and Stay inspired with www.valiantjapanese.jp