JLPT N5
です
Polite copula (is/am/are)
Structure
Noun/Adj です
How it works
The word 'です' (desu) functions as a polite copula, similar to 'to be' in English (is, am, are). It is placed at the end of a sentence to state a fact about a noun or an adjective. Using 'です' makes your speech formal and polite enough for everyday social situations.
Examples
私は学生です。
I am a student.
これはペンです。
This is a pen.
今日は寒いです。
Today is cold.
Common mistakes
Do not use 'です' after a verb. For verbs, you must use their own polite forms (like ~masu).
Tip
In spoken Japanese, the 'u' in 'desu' is often whispered or silent, sounding more like 'dess'.
More JLPT N5 grammar
See です in real Japanese
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