GRAMMAR
ございます
to be (polite)
Explanation
NOTE
The verb ございます is the polite form of あります. It expresses existence or possession with a very formal and refined tone.
NOTE
You will hear ございます in shops, hotels, and formal announcements. Common set phrases include ありがとうございます (thank you) and おめでとうございます (congratulations).
STRUCTURE
ございます (polite あります)
ご質問はございますか。
Goshitsumon wa gozaimasu ka.
Do you have any questions?
お手洗いは二階にございます。
Otearai wa nikai ni gozaimasu.
The restroom is on the second floor.
予約の確認でございます。
Yoyaku no kakunin de gozaimasu.
This is a reservation confirmation.
Practice exercises
1
お手洗いは二階にございます。
The restroom is on the second floor.
Answer
ございます
2
何かご質問はございますか。
Do you have any questions?
Answer
ございます
3
ありがとうございます。
Thank you very much.
Answer
ございます
4
受付に係りの者が御座います。
A staff member is at the reception.
Answer
御座います
5
あちらに受付がございます。
The reception desk is over there.
Answer
ございます
6
ご質問はございますか。
Do you have any questions? (polite)
Answer
ございます
7
こちらが本日の資料でございます。
These are today's documents. (polite)
Answer
ございます
8
誠に恐れ入りますが、ただ今満室でございます。
I sincerely apologize, but we are currently fully booked. (polite — rooms are all taken)
Answer
ございます