How to Say ‘Working’ in Japanese
作業しています
さぎょうしています
💬 Usage Tip: Indicates someone is presently working, pronounced as (sagyō shiteimasu).
🇯🇵 In Japan: Reflects diligence, a highly regarded trait in Japanese society.
Phrase Breakdown
作業さぎょう
work
Refers to manual work or operation.
作業が終わった
The work is finished.
してして
do, doing
A verb form indicating an action in progress.
話している
is talking
いますいます
am/is/are (doing)
Present continuous form, used after verbs.
勉強しています
I am studying.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
作業さぎょう
[sagyou]
work; task
Refers to an activity involving mental or physical effort.
この作業は時間がかかります。
This task takes time.
しし
[shi]
do
Used to express performing an action.
宿題をしています。
I am doing homework.
てて
[te]
and
Connective particle for continued actions.
家を出て、駅に向かいます。
I leave home and head to the station.
いい
[i]
be
Indicates an ongoing action.
店で食べています。
I am eating at the store.
ますます
[masu]
be doing
Expresses a present continuous action.
仕事をしています。
I am working.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager