How to Say ‘Am studying / study (ongoing)’ in Japanese
勉強しています
べんきょうしています
💬 Usage Tip: You can swap in many subjects: [経済を勉強しています], [日本語を勉強しています].
🇯🇵 In Japan: This phrase is polite and neutral—safe for classrooms, workplaces, and first meetings.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
勉強べんきょう
[benkyou]
study; learning
Noun/する-verb. 勉強する = to study. In self-introductions, it’s a standard way to say what you’re studying.
大学で勉強をしています。
I do my studying at university.
しし
[shi]
do (stem of する)
Used to build しています (am doing) in polite speech.
日本語をべんきょうし て います。
I am studying Japanese.
てて
[te]
te-form connector
Part of the て-form; with いる it becomes progressive (している).
けいざいをべんきょうし て います。
I’m studying economics.
いい
[i]
to exist (animate); (part of いる)
In ています, indicates ongoing action in polite style.
大学でべんきょうしてい ます。
I am studying at university.
ますます
[masu]
(polite verb ending)
Polite ending used in self-introductions and formal speech: しています = am doing.
毎日べんきょうしています。
I study every day.
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