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A2 verb #2,800 más común 13 min de lectura

すわります

suwarimasu
Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos すわります en 30 segundos
Explicación すわります in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'suwarimasu' as one of the fundamental action verbs necessary for basic daily communication. The focus is strictly on the polite 'masu' form and its negative counterpart 'masen'. Learners practice associating the verb with common vocabulary like 'isu' (chair) and 'sofa'. The primary grammatical hurdle at this stage is memorizing the use of the particle 'ni' to indicate the destination of the sitting action. Teachers will often use physical Total Physical Response (TPR) exercises, instructing students to 'suwatte kudasai' (please sit down) or 'tatte kudasai' (please stand up) to build immediate auditory recognition. The goal is for the learner to confidently state where they sit or to understand simple commands regarding seating in a classroom or restaurant setting. The kanji 座 is usually not required for writing at this stage, but learners begin to recognize it visually. Mastery at A1 means being able to say 'I sit on the chair' (Isu ni suwarimasu) without hesitation.
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As learners progress to the A2 level, the usage of 'suwarimasu' expands significantly through the introduction of verb conjugations, particularly the te-form (suwatte). This allows learners to form more complex and socially useful sentences. A crucial function at this level is asking for permission, using the pattern 'suwatte mo ii desu ka' (May I sit?). This is an essential survival phrase for navigating public transport and cafes in Japan. Furthermore, A2 learners begin to distinguish between the action of sitting down and the state of being seated by using the present continuous form 'suwatte imasu'. They also learn to connect 'suwarimasu' with other actions, such as 'suwatte, hon o yomimasu' (I sit and read a book). The vocabulary surrounding the verb expands to include traditional elements like 'tatami' and 'zabuton', introducing a cultural dimension to the linguistic practice. By the end of A2, learners can comfortably navigate most everyday seating situations.
At the B1 level, learners begin to encounter 'suwarimasu' in more nuanced grammatical structures and varied social contexts. They learn to use conditional forms like 'suwareba' (if you sit) or 'suwattara' (when/if you sit). The potential form 'suwareru' (can sit) becomes highly useful for discussing seat availability on trains or at events. Learners also start to encounter compound verbs and related expressions, such as 'suwarikomu' (to sit down heavily/to stage a sit-in). At this stage, the distinction between 'suwaru' and more formal terms like 'koshikakeru' is introduced, helping learners adjust their register depending on whether they are speaking to a friend or a superior. Reading comprehension exercises at the B1 level will frequently feature the kanji 座 in short essays or stories about daily life. The focus shifts from basic survival communication to expressing conditions, abilities, and slight nuances in physical actions.
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B2 learners are expected to have a complete grasp of the grammatical mechanics of 'suwaru' and begin to engage with its figurative and idiomatic uses. At this level, the verb is not just about physical posture but can relate to settling into a position or role. Learners will encounter phrases in news articles or literature where 'suwaru' implies taking a seat of power or responsibility. The causative form 'suwaraseru' (to make/let someone sit) is practiced in contexts of childcare or managing events. Furthermore, B2 learners are expected to seamlessly switch between the casual dictionary form 'suwaru' in informal conversations and the polite 'suwarimasu' or honorific alternatives like 'o-kake ni naru' in professional environments. Listening comprehension involves understanding rapid, natural speech where 'suwatte iru' might be contracted to 'suwatteru'. The vocabulary surrounding the verb becomes highly specific, discussing seating arrangements (kamiza/shimoza) in business contexts.
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At the C1 level, the physical act of sitting is merely the baseline; learners explore the deep cultural and idiomatic resonance of 'suwaru' and the kanji 座. They encounter specialized vocabulary such as 'zazen' (座禅 - seated Zen meditation), 'zadan' (座談 - round-table discussion), and 'zayuu no mei' (座右の銘 - personal motto). The verb is used in complex, abstract discussions, perhaps analyzing the psychological impact of traditional Japanese seating versus Western chairs in architectural or sociological texts. C1 learners can effortlessly comprehend and produce highly formal keigo (honorifics) related to seating in strict business or ceremonial contexts, never mistakenly using a casual form when 'go-chakuseki' is required. They also understand literary descriptions of posture and what it conveys about a character's emotional state. Mastery here involves understanding the subtle cultural connotations of how, where, and when someone sits in Japanese society.
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At the pinnacle of C2 proficiency, learners interact with 'suwaru' and its associated kanji on a native-equivalent level, appreciating its historical evolution and literary depth. They can read classical literature or historical texts where older forms or specific cultural seating practices (like the intricate rules of seating in the Heian period) are described. They understand highly obscure idioms and can play with the language, perhaps using 'suwaru' metaphorically in creative writing or persuasive speeches to describe an unshakeable foundation or a deeply entrenched idea. The C2 learner understands the etymology of the kanji 座 and can discuss its components and historical usage. They can effortlessly translate complex nuances of English seating-related idioms into natural, culturally appropriate Japanese equivalents, demonstrating a complete and holistic mastery of the word within the broader tapestry of the Japanese language.
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Practícalo Ejemplos Notas y consejos

すわります en 30 segundos

  • Basic action verb meaning 'to sit'.
  • Always uses the particle に (ni) for the location.
  • Te-form is 座って (suwatte).
  • Intransitive verb; cannot take a direct object with を (o).
The Japanese verb suwarimasu (座ります) is a fundamental vocabulary word that translates directly to the English action of sitting down or being seated. Understanding this word goes far beyond merely knowing its English equivalent; it requires a deep dive into the linguistic structure, the kanji characters used to represent it, and the physical and cultural implications of the action within Japanese society. The dictionary form of this verb is suwaru (座る), and it belongs to the Group 1 or U-verb category in Japanese grammar. When we break down the kanji character used for this verb, 座, we uncover a fascinating etymological history. The kanji is composed of the radical 广, which represents a building, a roof, or a broad structure, and the inner component 坐, which itself means to sit. The inner component 坐 depicts two people (人) sitting on the ground (土). Therefore, the combined kanji 座 beautifully illustrates the concept of people sitting down together inside a building or under a roof. This visual representation highlights the communal and sheltered nature of sitting in traditional Japanese contexts.
Dictionary Form
座る (suwaru) - The casual, plain form used in informal speech and writing.

ここに すわります。

In modern Japanese, suwarimasu is used to describe the physical act of lowering one's body weight onto a supporting surface, whether that is a chair, a sofa, the floor, a tatami mat, or a cushion (zabuton). It is an intransitive verb, meaning it does not take a direct object with the particle 'o' (を). Instead, it describes an action performed by the subject and typically uses the particle 'ni' (に) to indicate the destination or the specific location where the sitting takes place.
Transitivity
Intransitive (自動詞 - jidoushi). It describes the state or action of the subject itself.

いすに すわります。

The concept of sitting in Japan carries significant cultural weight. Historically, before the widespread adoption of Western-style furniture like chairs and sofas during the Meiji Restoration, Japanese people predominantly sat on the floor, specifically on tatami mats. This gave rise to various specific styles of sitting, such as seiza (正座), which is the formal kneeling position, and agura (あぐら), which is sitting cross-legged. While suwarimasu is the general term encompassing all these forms of sitting, understanding these specific cultural postures enriches your comprehension of the word.

たたみに すわります。

Kanji Breakdown
座 = 广 (roof/building) + 坐 (two people sitting on the earth).

ソファに すわります。

Furthermore, suwarimasu can also imply the state of being seated, not just the dynamic action of sitting down. When someone is already in a chair, you might describe their state using the te-iru form, suwatte imasu (座っています). This dual nature of the verb—representing both the transition into a seated position and the continuous state of being seated—is a crucial aspect of Japanese verb mechanics that learners must master. The verb is universally understood and used across all demographics in Japan, making it an essential building block for any beginner aiming to achieve fluency.

ベンチに すわります。

Mastering suwarimasu opens the door to navigating daily life in Japan, from taking public transportation to dining in restaurants and attending formal ceremonies. It is a word that bridges the gap between basic physical actions and complex cultural etiquette, serving as a cornerstone of practical Japanese communication.
Using the verb suwarimasu (座ります) correctly involves mastering its conjugations, understanding the specific particles that accompany it, and knowing how to integrate it into various grammatical structures to express different nuances of meaning. Because it is a Group 1 (U-verb) in Japanese, its conjugation follows a predictable pattern that is essential for learners to memorize. Let us explore the mechanics of using this verb in everyday conversation and writing. The most critical grammatical rule to remember when using suwarimasu is the choice of particle. Because sitting is considered an action directed towards a specific location or a point of contact, the target of the sitting action is marked by the particle 'ni' (に). This is a common stumbling block for English speakers who might intuitively want to use the particle 'de' (で) because they equate it with the English preposition 'on' or 'at'. However, in Japanese, 'de' indicates the broad location where an action occurs, while 'ni' indicates the specific destination or resting place of the action.
Particle Rule
Always use [Location/Object] + に + 座ります.

あの席に すわります。

Let us examine the conjugations. The polite non-past form is suwarimasu (座ります), meaning 'I sit' or 'I will sit'. The polite past form is suwarimashita (座りました), meaning 'I sat'. The polite negative form is suwarimasen (座りません), meaning 'I do not sit' or 'I will not sit'. The polite past negative is suwarimasen deshita (座りませんでした), meaning 'I did not sit'.
Te-Form
座って (suwatte) - Used for requests, connecting sentences, and progressive states.

どうぞ、ここに すわって ください。

The te-form, suwatte (座って), is incredibly versatile and frequently used. When combined with kudasai (ください), it forms a polite request: 'Please sit down' (suwatte kudasai). When combined with imasu (います), it forms the present progressive or state-of-being form: 'is sitting' or 'is seated' (suwatte imasu). This distinction is vital. If you want to say 'He is sitting on the chair' (meaning he is currently in the seated position), you must say 'Kare wa isu ni suwatte imasu', not 'Kare wa isu ni suwarimasu', which would mean 'He will sit on the chair'.

彼は今、いすに すわって います。

Asking Permission
座ってもいいですか (suwatte mo ii desu ka) - May I sit down?

この席に すわって もいいですか。

Another important form is the volitional form, suwarou (座ろう) in casual speech or suwarimashou (座りましょう) in polite speech, which translates to 'Let's sit'. This is highly useful when suggesting to a friend or colleague that you both take a seat. The potential form, suwareru (座れる) or suwaremasu (座れます), means 'can sit'. You will often hear this on crowded trains when someone spots an empty seat and says, 'Ah, suwareru!' (Ah, I can sit!).

あそこが空いているから、すわりましょう。

Understanding these conjugations and how they interact with auxiliary verbs and particles allows you to express a wide range of intentions, states, and requests related to the simple act of sitting. Practice these patterns repeatedly until they become second nature, as they form the foundation of many daily interactions in Japanese.
The verb suwarimasu (座ります) is ubiquitous in Japanese daily life, echoing through various environments from the bustling public transport networks to the quiet intimacy of traditional homes. Recognizing the contexts in which this word is most frequently used will significantly enhance your listening comprehension and cultural fluency. One of the most common places you will hear and use this word is on public transportation, such as trains, subways, and buses. Japan's public transport systems are notoriously crowded, and securing a seat is often a priority for commuters. You will frequently hear people asking, 'Koko, suwatte mo ii desu ka?' (May I sit here?) or remarking, 'Kyou wa suwaremashita' (I was able to sit today). Additionally, announcements on trains often use related vocabulary, such as asking passengers to offer their seats to the elderly or pregnant women.
Public Transport
Trains, buses, and subways where finding a seat is a daily occurrence.

電車で席に すわります。

Restaurants and cafes are another primary setting for this verb. When you enter a dining establishment, the staff will typically greet you and guide you to a table or counter. They might say, 'Kochira ni douzo suwatte kudasai' (Please sit here). In more casual eateries, you might tell your friends, 'Mado no chikaku ni suwarou' (Let's sit near the window). The choice of where to sit can also reflect social dynamics, especially in business settings.
Dining Out
Restaurants, cafes, and izakayas where seating arrangements are managed by staff.

レストランのテーブルに すわります。

In educational and professional environments, suwarimasu is used to direct students or employees. A teacher might instruct a class, 'Minasan, seki ni suwatte kudasai' (Everyone, please sit in your seats) at the beginning of a lesson. In a business meeting, the chairperson might say, 'Sore dewa, suwatte hajimemashou' (Well then, let's sit and begin). The concept of kamiza (上座 - the seat of honor) and shimoza (下座 - the lower seat) is deeply ingrained in Japanese business culture, dictating exactly where individuals of different ranks should sit.

会議室のいすに すわります。

Traditional Japanese settings, such as tea ceremonies, martial arts dojos, or visiting a Japanese-style room (washitsu) in a home or ryokan, provide a unique context for suwarimasu. Here, sitting usually implies sitting on the floor, specifically on tatami mats. The formal way to sit is seiza (正座), kneeling with the tops of the feet flat on the floor. If you visit a Japanese home, the host might offer you a zabuton (floor cushion) and say, 'Zabuton ni suwatte kudasai' (Please sit on the cushion).
Traditional Settings
Tatami rooms, temples, and tea ceremonies requiring specific sitting postures.

お寺でたたみに すわります。

Finally, you will hear this word in casual, everyday domestic life. Family members might tell each other to sit down for dinner, or a parent might tell a child to sit still. 'Sofa ni suwatte terebi o miyou' (Let's sit on the sofa and watch TV) is a common household phrase. By paying attention to these diverse contexts, you will not only learn the word but also the cultural behaviors and expectations that accompany the act of sitting in Japan.

家でソファに すわります。

While suwarimasu (座ります) is a basic verb introduced early in Japanese language studies, learners frequently make several specific mistakes regarding its grammatical application and contextual usage. Addressing these common errors early on is crucial for developing natural-sounding Japanese and avoiding confusion in everyday communication. The most prevalent and persistent mistake made by beginners, particularly native English speakers, is the incorrect use of particles. Because English uses prepositions like 'on' or 'in' to describe sitting (e.g., 'sit on the chair', 'sit in the living room'), learners often default to the Japanese particle 'de' (で), which indicates the location of an action. However, suwarimasu requires the particle 'ni' (に) to mark the specific destination or resting place of the body.
The Particle Error
Using で (de) instead of に (ni) to indicate where you sit.

❌ いすで すわります。
⭕ いすに すわります。

Another frequent error involves confusing the action of sitting down with the state of being seated. In English, 'I am sitting' can mean both the continuous action of lowering oneself and the state of resting in a chair. In Japanese, suwarimasu strictly means the action of sitting down (or the future intention to do so). To express that someone is currently in a seated position, you must use the te-iru form: suwatte imasu (座っています). Saying 'Kare wa isu ni suwarimasu' when the person is already in the chair is incorrect; it implies he will sit down again.
State vs. Action
Confusing 座ります (will sit/sits) with 座っています (is seated).

❌ 彼は今、いすに すわります。
⭕ 彼は今、いすに すわって います。

Learners also sometimes confuse suwarimasu with other verbs that involve lowering the body, specifically shagamu (しゃがむ), which means to squat or crouch. If you lower your body but your weight remains on your feet rather than resting on a surface like a chair or the floor, you are squatting, not sitting. Using suwarimasu to describe squatting is a semantic error that native speakers will immediately notice.

❌ 道で すわります。(When meaning to squat)
⭕ 道で しゃがみます。

Furthermore, there is a common mistake regarding transitivity. Suwarimasu is an intransitive verb (自動詞), meaning it describes the action of the subject. You cannot 'sit someone down' using suwarimasu with the direct object particle 'o' (を). To express making or letting someone sit, you must use the causative form, suwaraseru (座らせる). For example, 'I made the child sit on the chair' would be 'Kodomo o isu ni suwarasemashita', not 'Kodomo o isu ni suwarimashita'.
Transitivity Error
Trying to use 座る with a direct object particle を (o).

❌ 子供をいすに すわります。
⭕ 子供をいすに 座らせます。

Lastly, in highly formal business contexts, simply using suwarimasu or suwatte kudasai can sound a bit too direct or insufficiently polite. In keigo (honorific language), it is often better to use koshikakeru (腰掛ける) or the honorific phrase o-kake kudasai (お掛けください) when inviting a client or superior to take a seat. Relying solely on suwarimasu in formal situations is a pragmatic error that can affect the tone of your professional interactions.

❌ 社長、ここに すわって ください。
⭕ 社長、こちらにお掛けください。

The Japanese language is rich with vocabulary related to body postures and positions. While suwarimasu (座ります) is the most general and widely used term for sitting, there are several similar words and expressions that convey specific nuances, levels of formality, or particular physical postures. Understanding these synonyms and related terms allows for more precise and contextually appropriate communication. One of the most common alternatives is koshikakemasu (腰掛けます), which literally translates to 'to hang one's hips'. This verb is specifically used for sitting on raised surfaces like chairs, benches, or stools, where the legs dangle or rest on the floor. It is rarely used for sitting directly on the floor or a tatami mat. Koshikakemasu sounds slightly more refined or formal than suwarimasu and is frequently used in business or customer service settings.
腰掛ける (koshikakeru)
To sit on a chair or bench; slightly more formal.

ベンチに 腰掛けます。

Another highly formal term is chakuseki shimasu (着席します). This is a Sino-Japanese compound word (kango) that means 'to take one's seat'. It is used in very formal, official, or ceremonial contexts, such as at a graduation ceremony, a formal banquet, or a large corporate meeting. You will often hear it as a command or announcement over a public address system, such as 'Minasama, go-chakuseki kudasai' (Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats). It is not used in casual, everyday conversation.
着席する (chakuseki suru)
To take a seat; highly formal, used in ceremonies and official events.

皆様、ご着席ください。

When discussing sitting on the floor, specific postures have their own verbs. Seiza shimasu (正座します) means to sit in the traditional, formal Japanese kneeling position. This is the required posture for tea ceremonies, martial arts, and formal gatherings in tatami rooms. Conversely, agura o kakimasu (あぐらをかきます) means to sit cross-legged. This is a relaxed, informal posture, typically adopted by men in casual settings, though women also use it in modern, relaxed environments.

お茶室で 正座します。

As mentioned in the common mistakes section, shagamimasu (しゃがみます) is a related action that is often confused with sitting. It means to squat or crouch down. While it involves lowering the body, the weight remains on the feet, not the buttocks. This is the posture used when using a traditional Japanese squat toilet or when resting on the street without actually sitting on the ground.
しゃがむ (shagamu)
To squat or crouch; weight remains on the feet.

疲れたので、道で しゃがみました。

Finally, there are idiomatic expressions related to sitting. For example, suwarikomimasu (座り込みます) means to sit down heavily or to sit down and refuse to move, often used in the context of protests or extreme exhaustion. By learning these variations, you can express the exact nature of the sitting action, whether it is a formal request to a client, a description of a traditional posture, or a casual remark to a friend.

デモ隊が広場に 座り込みました。

How Formal Is It?

Nivel de dificultad

Gramática que debes saber

Particle に for destination of movement/action.

Te-form + います for continuous state.

Te-form + ください for polite requests.

Te-form + もいいですか for asking permission.

Nai-form + でください for negative requests.

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Ejemplos por nivel

1

いすに すわります。

I sit on the chair.

Uses particle に to indicate the destination of the action.

2

ここに すわりますか。

Will you sit here?

Question particle か added to the polite form.

3

わたしは ソファに すわります。

I will sit on the sofa.

Basic Subject + Location + に + Verb structure.

4

どうぞ、すわって ください。

Please sit down.

Te-form (すわって) + ください for a polite request.

5

ベッドに すわりません。

I do not sit on the bed.

Negative polite form (すわりません).

6

きのう、そこに すわりました。

I sat there yesterday.

Past polite form (すわりました).

7

たたみに すわります。

I sit on the tatami mat.

Vocabulary integration: tatami.

8

どこに すわりますか。

Where will you sit?

Question word どこ (where) + に.

1

ここに すわっても いいですか。

May I sit here?

Te-form + もいいですか for asking permission.

2

おじいさんは いすに すわっています。

The grandfather is sitting on the chair.

Te-form + います indicating a continuous state of being seated.

3

すわって、テレビを 見ます。

I sit and watch TV.

Te-form used to connect sequential actions.

4

電車で すわることが できました。

I was able to sit on the train.

Dictionary form (すわる) + ことができる for potential/ability.

5

あそこに すわりましょう。

Let's sit over there.

Volitional polite form (すわりましょう) for a suggestion.

6

つかれたから、すわりたいです。

I am tired, so I want to sit.

Verb stem (すわり) + たいです expressing desire.

7

床に すわらないで ください。

Please do not sit on the floor.

Nai-form (すわらない) + でください for a negative request.

8

まどのみちの ちかくに すわりました。

I sat near the window.

Using location nouns (ちかく) with the particle に.

1

電車が すいていたので、すわれました。

The train was empty, so I could sit.

Potential form (すわれる) in the past tense (すわれました).

2

このいすは すわりやすいです。

This chair is easy to sit in (comfortable).

Verb stem + やすい (easy to do).

3

一番前の席に 座るつもりです。

I plan to sit in the very front seat.

Dictionary form + つもりです expressing intention.

4

座ったまま、寝てしまいました。

I fell asleep while remaining seated.

Ta-form (座った) + まま indicating an unchanged state.

5

あの子は ずっと 座り続けています。

That child has been sitting continuously for a long time.

Compound verb: Verb stem + 続ける (to continue doing).

6

もし席が空いていれば、座ってください。

If a seat is open, please sit.

Conditional form (空いていれば) combined with a request.

7

長時間座ると、腰が痛くなります。

If you sit for a long time, your lower back hurts.

Dictionary form + と for a natural consequence.

8

彼は ソファに 座りながら コーヒーを飲んでいる。

He is drinking coffee while sitting on the sofa.

Verb stem + ながら for simultaneous actions.

1

デモ隊は 市役所の前に 座り込んだ。

The protesters staged a sit-in in front of the city hall.

Compound verb 座り込む (to sit down heavily/stage a sit-in).

2

子供を おとなしく 座らせるのは 難しい。

It is difficult to make a child sit quietly.

Causative form (座らせる) used as a noun phrase with の.

3

会議では、役職の高い人が 上座に座るべきだ。

In meetings, people with high positions should sit in the seat of honor.

Dictionary form + べきだ expressing strong recommendation/duty.

4

彼は 椅子に 深々と 座って、ため息をついた。

He sat deeply in the chair and sighed.

Adverbial phrase (深々と) modifying the verb.

5

指定された席に 座らなければなりません。

You must sit in the designated seat.

Negative conditional + なりません expressing obligation.

6

座り心地のいい ソファを 探しています。

I am looking for a sofa that is comfortable to sit on.

Noun phrase 座り心地 (feeling of sitting/comfort).

7

彼女は 緊張した面持ちで 面接官の前に 座った。

She sat in front of the interviewer with a nervous expression.

Descriptive context using the ta-form (座った).

8

お掛けになって お待ちください。(座って)

Please have a seat and wait. (Honorific equivalent of suwatte)

Introduction of the honorific equivalent お掛けになる.

1

長時間のデスクワークで、座りっぱなしの生活が続いている。

Due to long hours of desk work, my lifestyle of sitting constantly continues.

Verb stem + っぱなし indicating a continuous, often negative, state.

2

彼は 社長の椅子に 座る日を 虎視眈々と狙っている。

He is vigilantly waiting for the day he sits in the president's chair.

Metaphorical use of sitting to imply taking a position of power.

3

座禅を組んで、心を無にする 修行を行った。

I practiced the discipline of sitting in Zen meditation and emptying my mind.

Vocabulary integration: 座禅 (zazen - seated meditation).

4

その法案に対する 反対派が 議事堂前に 座り込みを決行した。

The opposition faction carried out a sit-in in front of the parliament building against the bill.

Noun form 座り込み (sit-in protest).

5

来賓の方々は、あらかじめ 指定された 上座に ご着席ください。

Guests, please take your seats in the pre-designated seats of honor.

Highly formal alternative ご着席 (go-chakuseki).

6

腰を据えて（座って） この問題に 取り組む必要がある。

We need to settle down (sit firmly) and tackle this problem.

Idiomatic expression 腰を据える (to settle down to a task).

7

彼は どっかりと 腰を下ろし（座り）、動こうとしなかった。

He sat down heavily and refused to move.

Descriptive phrasing どっかりと腰を下ろす as a synonym.

8

座右の銘は「継続は力なり」です。

My personal motto (words kept by one's seat) is 'Consistency is power'.

Advanced vocabulary using the kanji: 座右の銘 (zayuu no mei).

1

権座に座る者の 孤独と苦悩は、計り知れない。

The loneliness and anguish of one who sits in the seat of power are immeasurable.

Literary and abstract use of 座 (seat of power).

2

茶道において、正座は 単なる姿勢ではなく 精神修養の一部である。

In the tea ceremony, formal sitting (seiza) is not merely a posture but a part of spiritual cultivation.

Philosophical discussion involving 正座 (seiza).

3

彼は 泰然自若として 座を占め、周囲の喧騒を意に介さなかった。

He occupied his seat with calm self-possession, paying no mind to the surrounding clamor.

Classical phrasing 座を占める (to occupy a seat).

4

その劇団の 座長として、彼は 全員を牽引する 責任がある。

As the head of the theatrical troupe, he has the responsibility to lead everyone.

Vocabulary using the kanji: 座長 (zachou - troupe leader/chairman).

5

満座の中で 恥をかかされた 恨みは、容易には消えない。

The grudge of being humiliated in front of the whole assembly will not easily fade.

Idiomatic noun 満座 (manza - the whole assembly/everyone present).

6

鼎の軽重を問われる ような、重要な ポストに 座ることになった。

I have come to sit in an important post where my true worth will be questioned.

Metaphorical use of sitting combined with a complex idiom.

7

彼女の 凛とした 座り姿は、一枚の 絵画のように 美しかった。

Her dignified seated posture was as beautiful as a painting.

Poetic description using the compound noun 座り姿 (suwarisugata).

8

車座になって 語り合うことで、互いの 垣根が 取り払われた。

By sitting in a circle and talking, the barriers between us were removed.

Cultural seating arrangement 車座 (kurumaza - sitting in a circle).

Colocaciones comunes

いすに座る (isu ni suwaru - sit on a chair)
席に座る (seki ni suwaru - sit in a seat)
床に座る (yuka ni suwaru - sit on the floor)
ソファに座る (sofa ni suwaru - sit on a sofa)
たたみに座る (tatami ni suwaru - sit on tatami)
深く座る (fukaku suwaru - sit deeply/comfortably)
浅く座る (asaku suwaru - sit shallowly/on the edge)
隣に座る (tonari ni suwaru - sit next to)
前に座る (mae ni suwaru - sit in front)
円になって座る (en ni natte suwaru - sit in a circle)

Frases Comunes

座ってください (suwatte kudasai - please sit down)
座ってもいいですか (suwatte mo ii desu ka - may I sit?)
座ったまま (suwatta mama - remaining seated)
座り心地がいい (suwarigokochi ga ii - comfortable to sit on)
座りっぱなし (suwarippanashi - sitting continuously)
ここに座ろう (koko ni suwarou - let's sit here)
座る場所がない (suwaru basho ga nai - no place to sit)
席に座りなさい (seki ni suwarinasai - sit in your seat [command])
座って待つ (suwatte matsu - sit and wait)
座るのをやめる (suwaru no o yameru - stop sitting)

Se confunde a menudo con

すわります vs しゃがむ (shagamu - to squat)

すわります vs 腰掛ける (koshikakeru - to sit on a raised surface)

すわります vs 寝る (neru - to lie down/sleep)

Modismos y expresiones

"腰を据える (koshi o sueru - to settle down to a task)"
"座が白ける (za ga shirakeru - the atmosphere of the gathering is ruined)"
"座を持たせる (za o motaseru - to keep the conversation going/entertain the room)"
"座を外す (za o hazusu - to leave the room/excuse oneself)"
"座右の銘 (zayuu no mei - personal motto)"
"座長を務める (zachou o tsutomeru - to act as chairman)"
"満座の中で (manza no naka de - in front of everyone)"
"車座になる (kurumaza ni naru - to sit in a circle)"
"上座に座る (kamiza ni suwaru - to sit in the seat of honor)"
"下座に座る (shimoza ni suwaru - to sit in the lowest seat)"

Fácil de confundir

すわります vs

すわります vs

すわります vs

すわります vs

すわります vs

Patrones de oraciones

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Cómo usarlo

nuance

Implies the physical action of lowering the body. Does not mean 'to squat' (shagamu).

formality

Suwarimasu is standard polite. Suwaru is casual. Koshikakeru is more formal.

colloquialisms

Often shortened in casual speech (e.g., suwatteru instead of suwatte iru).

Errores comunes
  • Using で (de) instead of に (ni).

    The particle に indicates the specific destination of the sitting action, whereas で indicates a general location of an activity.

  • Saying 座ります when already seated.

    座ります is the future/habitual action. To describe the continuous state of being seated, you must use the te-iru form.

  • Using 座る for squatting.

    If your weight is on your feet and not your buttocks, you are squatting (shagamu), not sitting (suwaru).

  • Trying to say 'I sit him down' using を (o).

    座る is intransitive. To make someone sit, you must use the causative form 座らせる.

  • Using 座ってください to a boss or client.

    While grammatically correct, 座ってください is too direct for highly formal situations. Honorific language is required.

Consejos

Particle Ni

Always pair 'suwarimasu' with the particle 'ni' (に) to indicate where you are sitting. Think of 'ni' as a pin on a map marking your exact seat. Using 'de' (で) is a grammatical error. Example: Isu ni suwarimasu.

State vs Action

Remember the difference between doing the action and being in the state. 'Suwarimasu' means you are going to sit. 'Suwatte imasu' means you are currently seated. Mixing these up will confuse native speakers.

Kamiza and Shimoza

In business, where you sit is crucial. The 'kamiza' (seat of honor) is furthest from the door. The 'shimoza' (lowest seat) is closest to the door. Always wait to be directed to your seat in formal situations.

Asking Permission

Before taking an empty seat next to someone, especially on a train or in a cafe, it is polite to ask. Use 'Koko, suwatte mo ii desu ka?' (May I sit here?). A slight bow adds politeness.

Formal Alternatives

If you are working in Japan, 'suwatte kudasai' might be too casual for clients. Learn the phrase 'o-kake kudasai'. It means 'please have a seat' and shows high respect.

Visualizing the Kanji

To remember the kanji 座, picture a house (广). Inside the house, two people (人) are sitting on the dirt floor (土). This story makes the complex strokes easy to remember.

Clear Vowels

Ensure you pronounce all syllables clearly: su-wa-ri-ma-su. Do not swallow the 'wa' sound. It should not sound like 'swarimasu'. Keep the pitch flat (heiban).

Common Pairings

Memorize 'suwarimasu' in chunks. 'Isu ni suwaru' (chair), 'Sofa ni suwaru' (sofa), 'Yuka ni suwaru' (floor). Learning phrases is faster than learning single words.

Squatting vs Sitting

Do not use 'suwarimasu' if you are just crouching down to look at something on the ground. That is 'shagamu'. 'Suwarimasu' requires your weight to rest on your buttocks.

Casual Contractions

In anime or casual speech, you will rarely hear 'suwatte imasu'. It gets contracted to 'suwatteru'. Train your ears to recognize this shortened form for better listening comprehension.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine a SWAN (suwa) resting on a REEF (ri) saying 'MA, SOO comfortable!' (masu) as it sits down.

Asociación visual

Picture two people sitting under a roof on the ground, exactly as the kanji 座 depicts.

Origen de la palabra

Native Japanese (Wago) combined with Chinese character (Kanji).

Contexto cultural

Never step on the borders of tatami mats when walking to your seat.

Kamiza (上座) is the seat of honor, Shimoza (下座) is for the lowest ranking person.

Seiza (正座 - formal kneeling), Agura (あぐら - cross-legged for men).

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Inicios de conversación

"ここ、座ってもいいですか？ (May I sit here?)"

"いつも電車で座れますか？ (Can you usually sit on the train?)"

"正座はできますか？ (Can you sit in seiza?)"

"どの席に座りたいですか？ (Which seat do you want to sit in?)"

"お気に入りの座る場所はどこですか？ (Where is your favorite place to sit?)"

Temas para diario

Describe your favorite chair and why you like sitting in it.

Write about a time you had to sit in 'seiza' and how it felt.

Explain the seating arrangement in your classroom or office.

Write a short story about someone trying to find a seat on a crowded train.

Discuss the difference between sitting on the floor versus sitting on a chair.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

In Japanese, 'de' indicates the broad area where an action takes place. 'Ni' indicates the specific destination or resting point of an action. When you sit, your body moves towards and rests on a specific point (like a chair). Therefore, 'ni' is the correct particle to mark that destination.

No, that is a common mistake. 'Suwarimasu' means 'I will sit' or 'I sit (habitually)'. If you are currently in a seated position, you must use the state-of-being form: 'suwatte imasu'. Using 'suwarimasu' implies you are about to perform the action of sitting down.

Both mean to sit, but they have different nuances. 'Suwaru' is the general term for sitting anywhere (floor, chair, ground). 'Koshikakeru' specifically means to sit on a raised surface where your legs hang down, like a chair or bench. 'Koshikakeru' also sounds slightly more formal.

The standard polite way is 'suwatte kudasai' (please sit down). However, in a business setting or when speaking to a superior, this can sound too direct. It is better to use the honorific expression 'o-kake kudasai' (please have a seat).

It is an intransitive verb (jidoushi). This means it describes an action that the subject does themselves, without affecting a direct object. You cannot use the particle 'o' (を) with it. To say 'I made him sit', you must use the causative form 'suwaraseru'.

'Seiza' literally translates to 'correct sitting'. It is the traditional Japanese formal posture where you kneel and sit on your heels with the tops of your feet flat on the floor. It is required in formal tatami rooms, tea ceremonies, and martial arts.

To express desire, you drop the 'masu' from 'suwarimasu' and add 'tai desu'. So, 'I want to sit' becomes 'suwaritai desu'. If you want to ask someone if they want to sit, you can say 'suwaritai desu ka?'.

The kanji is 座. It is composed of the radical for a building/roof (广) and the component for sitting (坐). The inner part shows two people (人) sitting on the ground (土). It visually represents people sitting together inside.

Yes, you can use 'suwarimasu' for animals if they are assuming a seated posture similar to humans, like a dog sitting on its hind legs. You might say 'Inu ga suwatte imasu' (The dog is sitting). For birds, 'tomaru' (to perch) is more common.

'Suwarikomu' is a compound verb made of 'suwaru' (to sit) and 'komu' (to go into/deeply). It means to sit down heavily, to sink into a seat, or to sit down and refuse to move. It is often used to describe a sit-in protest or sitting down out of extreme exhaustion.

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