Translation and Meaning of: ご座います - gozaimasu

The Japanese word ご座います (ございます) is a widely used courtesy expression in the language, especially in formal situations. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about this expression, understanding its meaning, origin, and usage can be essential for communicating elegantly. In this article, we will explore everything from the translation to the cultural context in which it appears, as well as practical tips for memorization.

Many students get confused with the polite form of verbs in Japanese, and ございます is one of the most common examples. Its usage goes beyond the basics, reflecting important nuances of Japanese culture, such as respect and humility. Here at Suki Nihongo, we strive to provide accurate information so that you can master not just the word, but also its application in daily life.

Meaning and translation of ご座います

ございます is an extremely polite form of the verb ある (to exist, to have). While あります is already a more courteous version, ございます elevates the level of formality even further. Its closest translation in English would be "to have" or "to exist," but with a much more respectful tone. It is commonly used in stores, customer service, and formal speeches.

It is worth noting that this expression is not only used to indicate existence. In combination with adjectives, such as in ありがとうございます (thank you very much), it takes on a sense of heightened gratitude. This flexibility makes it one of the most useful words for those who want to sound natural in professional situations in Japan.

Origin and evolution of the Japanese language

The etymology of ございます dates back to the Edo period, when honorific language began to be more firmly structured in Japanese society. Originally, it derived from 御座る (ござる), an archaic form that already carried a reverential tone. Over time, the ending was softened to ございます, becoming standard in commercial and bureaucratic language.

Interestingly, this word rarely appears in regional dialects, being mostly associated with standard Japanese (hyōjungo). This reinforces its role as a marker of education and formality, avoided in casual or intimate contexts. Its kanji, 座, literally means "seat," suggesting the idea of something being present or available.

When and how to use ございます correctly

The main mistake of learners is using ございます excessively, making speech sound artificial. This form should be reserved for interactions with hierarchical superiors, clients, or situations that require protocol. In conversations among friends or family, あります is more than enough. A classic example is when answering the phone: "田中でございます" (I am Tanaka) sounds professional, while "田中です" would be the normal expression.

Another important detail is its conjugation. Unlike あります, which can be negated directly (ありません), ございます requires the form ございません for negation. This irregularity confuses many students, but with constant practice, its use becomes natural. One tip is to mentally associate it with environments such as hotels or ceremonies, where formality is expected.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ございます (gozaimasu) - Polite form of "to exist" or "to have," used in formal contexts.

ご座います

Romaji: gozaimasu
Kana: ございます
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: be educated); exist

Meaning in English: to be (polite);to exist

Definition: Used in humble expressions like "Isuzu", "Ikimasu", "Irasaimasu" and "Saimasu".

Example Sentences - (ご座います) gozaimasu

See below some example sentences:

お茶をご座いますか？

Ocha wo gozaimasu ka?

Would you like to have tea?

Do you sit with tea?

• お茶 - means "tea" in Japanese
• を - Direct Object Particle in Japanese
• ご - Respectful prefix in Japanese
• 座います - verb "to sit" in Japanese
• か - interrogative particle in Japanese
• ？ - question mark in Japanese