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Te-form constructions for requests, ongoing states, sequencing, and permission
What each pattern means, when to use it, and the mistakes that cost marks in the exam.
Lists actions in a non-exhaustive way using the past form + り for each verb, ending with する. Implies the listed actions are examples, not a complete list.
Common mistakes
Attaches to the te-form of a transitive verb to express that an action was done intentionally and its result remains. Focuses on the state, not the doer.
Common mistakes
Attaches to the te-form of a verb to express an action in progress or a habitual state. Often shortened to 〜てる in casual speech.
Common mistakes
Attaches から to the te-form of a verb to express sequential actions — 'after doing X, then Y.' Emphasizes that X must be completed before Y begins.
Common mistakes
Attaches ください to the te-form of a verb to make a polite request. This is the standard way to ask someone to do something politely in Japanese.
Common mistakes
Attaches でください to the nai-form of a verb to make a polite negative request. Used to ask someone not to do something.
Common mistakes
Attaches もいい (or polite form もいいです) to the te-form of a verb to express permission. Often used to ask for permission with 〜てもいいですか？
Common mistakes
Attaches はいけない (or polite form はいけません) to the te-form of a verb to express prohibition. Stronger than 〜ないでください — it states a rule or strict prohibition.
Common mistakes
Adaptive practice
Our adaptive engine will quiz you on these 8 grammar patterns and track which ones you need to review most.