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Vocabulary
聞きます

A2 verb 8 min read

聞きます

kikimasu

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 聞きます in 30 Seconds

Explanation 聞きます in your Level:

At the A1 level, '聞きます' (kikimasu) is introduced as one of the essential daily verbs. Learners focus on its most basic meaning: 'to listen to something' or 'to hear something.' The primary grammar pattern involves the particle 'を' (o) to indicate the object being listened to, such as music (ongaku), the radio (rajio), or a CD. At this stage, students also learn the polite '-masu' form and its negative counterpart '-masen.' The focus is on simple, present-tense habits and immediate actions. For example, 'Mainichi ongaku o kikimasu' (I listen to music every day). The concept of 'asking' is usually introduced slightly later or kept to very simple phrases like 'Sensei ni kikimasu' (I will ask the teacher). The goal at A1 is to recognize the word in context and use it to describe basic auditory activities.

At the A2 level, the usage of '聞きます' expands to include 'asking questions' and 'inquiring for information.' Learners are expected to distinguish between 'Person ni kikimasu' (Ask a person) and 'Object o kikimasu' (Listen to an object). The past tense '聞きました' (kikimashita) becomes a staple for reporting things heard or questions asked in the past. A2 learners also begin to encounter the 'Te-form' (聞いて - kiite), allowing them to form requests like 'Kiite kudasai' (Please listen) or progressive actions like 'Kiite imasu' (I am listening). The distinction between '聞く' (active listening) and '聞こえる' (passive hearing) is often introduced here to prevent common errors. Learners also start using '聞きます' to report hearsay in a simple way, such as 'Tanaka-san kara kikimashita' (I heard it from Mr. Tanaka).

By the B1 level, learners use '聞きます' in more complex grammatical structures. This includes the use of the dictionary form '聞く' (kiku) before nouns (e.g., 'kiku koto' - the act of listening) and in relative clauses (e.g., 'kino kiita ongaku' - the music I listened to yesterday). The verb is also used with conditional forms like 'kikitara' (if/when I ask/listen). B1 students are expected to understand the nuance of 'kiku' meaning 'to obey' or 'to follow advice' (e.g., 'Oya no iu koto o kiku'). They also begin to learn potential forms like 'kikeru' (can listen/ask). The use of 'kiku' for 'to smell' in the context of incense might be introduced as a cultural curiosity. Conversational fillers like 'Chotto kiku kedo...' (I'm just asking, but...) become part of their repertoire to make speech sound more natural.

At the B2 level, '聞きます' is integrated into advanced social and professional contexts. Learners master the humble form '伺います' (ukagaimasu) and the honorific 'お聞きになる' (okiki ni naru), which are essential for business Japanese (Keigo). They can distinguish between different kanji for the same pronunciation, such as '聞く' (general) and '聴く' (attentive/music). B2 students use '聞く' in complex hearsay structures like '~ to kiite iru' (I have heard that...) or '~ da to no koto da.' They also understand idiomatic expressions and compound verbs like '聞き流す' (kikinagasu - to ignore/let something go in one ear and out the other) or '聞き取る' (kikitoru - to catch/comprehend spoken words). The ability to use '聞く' to mean 'to consult' (hanashi o kiku) in a professional or therapeutic context is also expected.

At the C1 level, the learner possesses a deep, nuanced understanding of '聞きます' and its derivatives. They can appreciate its use in classical literature and formal oratory. They are comfortable with highly specialized vocabulary such as '拝聴' (haichō - humble listening) and '公聴会' (kōchōkai - public hearing). C1 learners can use '聞く' to describe subtle sensory experiences beyond sound, such as 'listening' to the voice of nature or the 'flavor' of a traditional craft. They understand the philosophical implications of 'listening' in Japanese culture—as a form of empathy and silence. They can also navigate the most complex honorific shifts in high-level business negotiations or academic lectures where 'kiku' might be replaced by several different verbs depending on the social hierarchy and the specific nature of the inquiry.

At the C2 level, '聞きます' is used with the effortless precision of a native speaker. The learner can detect and use the word in its most archaic or poetic forms. They understand the etymological roots (the 'gate' and the 'ear') and how this influences the word's conceptual space in the Japanese psyche. C2 learners can engage in high-level discourse about the 'art of listening' in Japanese society, contrasting it with Western models of communication. They can use 'kiku' in puns, wordplay, and sophisticated metaphors. Whether it is a legal context (hearing a case), a religious context (listening to a sermon), or a highly technical linguistic discussion about the phonology of the word, the C2 learner operates with total fluency and cultural mastery, recognizing that 'kiku' is not just a verb, but a gateway to understanding Japanese interpersonal harmony.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

聞きます in 30 Seconds

Used for both 'listening' and 'asking'.
Uses the particle 'o' for sounds/objects and 'ni' for people you ask.
A Group 1 (Godan) verb with the dictionary form 'kiku'.
Essential for daily conversations, news, and following instructions.

The Japanese verb 聞きます (kikimasu) is a multi-faceted word that serves as a cornerstone of daily communication. Primarily, it translates to 'to hear' or 'to listen,' but its utility extends significantly into the realm of 'to ask.' This dual nature makes it one of the most versatile verbs for beginners and intermediate learners alike. When you are processing auditory information, whether it is the chirping of birds or a complex lecture, you use 聞きます. However, the moment you need to seek information from a person, this same verb shifts its meaning to 'to ask.' This linguistic overlap suggests a cultural nuance where 'asking' is essentially 'listening for an answer,' emphasizing the receptive nature of inquiry in Japanese social dynamics.

The Auditory Aspect: In its most literal sense, it refers to the physical act of hearing sounds. If a loud noise wakes you up, you 'heard' it. If you are intentionally focusing on a podcast, you are 'listening' to it. Japanese does not always distinguish between 'hear' and 'listen' with different verbs in the way English does with 'hear' vs 'listen,' although specialized kanji or the potential form (kikoeru) can provide more precision.
The Inquisitive Aspect: When followed by the particle に (ni), the verb transforms. 'Sensei ni kikimasu' does not mean 'I listen to the teacher' in the sense of obeying, but rather 'I will ask the teacher a question.' This is a vital distinction for students to master early on.

毎朝、ラジオを聞きます。 (I listen to the radio every morning.)

Beyond these primary uses, 聞きます is also employed in contexts involving 'following advice' or 'obeying.' If a child 'listens' to their parents (oya no iu koto o kiku), it implies obedience. Interestingly, in the traditional arts, particularly the incense ceremony (Kōdō), one does not 'smell' the incense; one 'listens' to it (kō o kiku), reflecting a deep, spiritual engagement with the senses. This demonstrates that the verb is not just about the ears, but about a profound internalizing of external stimuli.

道がわからないので、交番で聞きます。 (I don't know the way, so I will ask at the police box.)

In professional settings, the polite version 伺います (ukagaimasu) is often used as a humble alternative when asking a superior or a client. However, in standard polite conversation (Desu/Masu style), 聞きます remains perfectly acceptable and safe. Understanding the context—whether you are receiving sound or seeking information—is key to using this word like a native speaker.

Mastering 聞きます requires a solid understanding of Japanese particles, as they dictate the meaning of the verb. The two most important particles used with this verb are を (o) and に (ni). When you use を, you are identifying the object of your listening—the music, the news, or the sound. When you use に, you are identifying the source or the person you are questioning.

Object Focus (Listening/Hearing): Structure: [Sound/Source] を聞きます. Example: 音楽を聞きます (Listen to music). Here, the focus is on the auditory experience itself.
Target Focus (Asking): Structure: [Person] に聞きます. Example: 友達に聞きます (Ask a friend). In this context, the verb shifts from receiving sound to actively soliciting information.

昨日、面白いニュースを聞きました。 (I heard some interesting news yesterday.)

The verb belongs to the Group 1 (U-verbs/Godan) category. Its dictionary form is 聞く (kiku). In the polite form, it conjugates to 聞きます (kikimasu). For the negative, it becomes 聞きません (kikimasen). For the past tense, it is 聞きました (kikimashita). A common mistake for learners is using the wrong particle when asking. Remember: you ask *to* a person (Ni), not *objectify* a person (O).

先生にテストの時間を聞きました。 (I asked the teacher about the test time.)

When you want to express 'listening' as a continuous action (like 'I am currently listening'), use the Te-form plus imasu: 聞いています (kiite imasu). This is essential for responding when someone asks what you are doing. If you are describing a habit, such as 'I listen to jazz every night,' the standard 聞きます is also appropriate. The versatility of this verb means it appears in almost every conversation, from the classroom to the office.

In Japan, 聞きます is ubiquitous. You will encounter it in diverse environments, ranging from formal announcements to casual street interactions. Understanding where and how it is used helps in recognizing the intended meaning immediately. In a school setting, teachers frequently say 「よく聞いてください」 (Yoku kiite kudasai), meaning 'Please listen carefully.' This is the standard instruction before an explanation or a listening exercise.

Public Spaces and Transit: In train stations, you might hear announcements starting with 'Gochūi kudasai' (Please be careful), but when staff provide information, they might use 'kiku' derivatives to refer to passenger inquiries. At information desks (Annaijo), you are literally there to 'ask' (聞く).
Daily Social Interactions: When friends meet, one might say 「ちょっと聞いて！」 (Chotto kiite!), which translates to 'Hey, listen to this!' or 'Guess what happened!' It is a common conversational hook used to share news or gossip.

「駅員さんに聞きましょう。」 (Let's ask the station staff.)

In the world of media, news anchors often use the past tense 聞きました or the more formal 伺いました when reporting what a witness or official said. In music apps or electronics stores, you will see the word 試聴 (shichō), which combines 'test' and 'listen,' meaning 'to preview/listen to a sample.' Even in technology, voice assistants like Siri or Alexa are designed to 'listen' (聞き取る - kikitoru) to your commands.

「お母さんの言うことを聞きなさい。」 (Listen to what your mother says! / Obey your mother!)

Finally, in the realm of rumors, the phrase 「〜だと聞きました」 (~ da to kikimashita) is the standard way to say 'I heard that...'. This is used constantly in office gossip or when passing on information you aren't 100% sure of yourself. It distances the speaker from the source, which is a key aspect of Japanese politeness and indirectness.

While 聞きます is a basic verb, its multiple meanings lead to frequent errors by English speakers. The most common pitfall is the confusion between 'listening' (active) and 'hearing' (passive). In English, we distinguish these clearly. In Japanese, 聞きます covers both, but only when you are the active subject. If a sound simply enters your ears without effort, you should use the potential-like form 聞こえます (kikoeru).

Mistake: Particle Confusion: Saying 'Tom-san を 聞きます' when you mean 'I will ask Tom.' This sounds like you are literally listening to the sounds Tom makes (like his heartbeat or breathing). Always use に for the person you are asking.
Mistake: Confusion with 'Kikoeru': If someone asks 'Can you hear me?' on a Zoom call, responding with 'Kikimasu' is wrong. 'Kikimasu' means 'I will listen.' You should say 'Kikoemasu' (I can hear you/The sound is reaching me).

Incorrect: 音楽が聞きます。
Correct: 音楽を聞きます。 (I listen to music.)

Another error involves the verb 尋ねる (tazuneru). While 聞く is the go-to word for 'ask,' 尋ねる is specifically for asking directions or seeking information in a more formal or directed way. Beginners often stick to 聞く for everything, which is usually fine, but using it for 'visiting' (another meaning of tazuneru) is a common point of confusion. Also, be careful with 'asking a favor.' You don't 'kiku' a favor; you 'tanomu' (頼む) or 'onegaishimasu' (お願いします) a favor.

Incorrect: 先生を聞きました。
Correct: 先生に聞きました。 (I asked the teacher.)

Lastly, learners sometimes confuse 聞く with 効く (kiku), which is pronounced the same but means 'to be effective' (like medicine). While context usually clarifies this, in writing, the kanji are different. Always ensure you are using the 'ear' kanji for auditory or inquisitive contexts.

Japanese has several verbs that overlap with 聞きます, each with specific nuances. Choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific type of 'listening' or 'asking' you are doing. The most frequent alternative for 'listening' with deep intent is 聴く (kiku). Although pronounced the same, the kanji 聴 (used in 'audiology' or 'audience') implies a higher level of concentration, such as listening to a symphony or a profound speech.

聞く (Standard) vs. 聴く (Attentive): Use 聞く for general hearing, asking, and casual listening. Use 聴く for music appreciation, lectures, or when the act of listening is the primary focus.
尋ねる (Tazuneru) vs. 伺う (Ukagau): 尋ねる is a more formal way to say 'ask' or 'inquire,' often used when asking for directions. 伺う is the humble (Kenjōgo) form, essential for business when asking a superior or client a question.

クラシック音楽を聴きます。 (I listen [attentively] to classical music.)

When it comes to 'hearing' something spontaneously, 聞こえる (kikoeru) is the necessary alternative. It describes the state of sound being audible. For example, 'I can hear the sea' would be 'Umi no oto ga kikoeru.' Using 聞く here would imply you are actively putting your ear to the water. Another interesting related verb is 問い詰める (toitsumeru), which means 'to cross-examine' or 'to press for an answer,' a much more aggressive form of asking.

ちょっとお伺いしますが... (Pardon me, I have a humble question...)

Lastly, for 'obeying,' 従う (shitagau) is a direct synonym for 'following' rules or orders. While 言うことを聞く is common for children or pets, 従う is the adult, professional term. Understanding these distinctions allows you to move beyond basic communication and express yourself with the precision of a native speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji for 'kiku' is an ideogram showing an ear inside a gate. This suggests that the ear is the portal through which the outside world enters the mind.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kɪ.ki.mæs/

US /ki.ki.mɑs/

Flat pitch (Heiban) or slight drop after 'ki'. In standard Tokyo Japanese, it is generally low-high-high-high.

Rhymes With

Ikimasu (go) Kakimasu (write) Hikimasu (pull) Okimasu (put/wake up) Akimasu (open) Sekimasu (cough) Fukimasu (blow) Makimasu (roll)

Common Errors

Pronouncing the final 'u' in 'masu' too strongly.
Stressing the wrong syllable (Japanese is pitch-accented, not stress-accented).
Confusing the vowel sounds for 'ke' instead of 'ki' (kekimasu instead of kikimasu).
Not connecting the 'ki' and 'ki' smoothly.
Making the 'm' sound too heavy.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Kanji is common but has many strokes. Recognition is easy once learned.

Writing 3/5

The 'gate' and 'ear' components must be balanced correctly.

Speaking 1/5

Pronunciation is very straightforward for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Must distinguish from 'kiku' (to be effective) via context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

私 (watashi) 音楽 (ongaku) 先生 (sensei) 質問 (shitsumon) に (particle)

Learn Next

聞こえる (kikoeru) 話す (hanasu) 伺う (ukagau) 尋ねる (tazuneru) 答える (kotoeru)

Advanced

聴取 (chōshu) 拝聴 (haichō) 聞き及ぶ (kiki-oyobu) 言外 (gengai)

Grammar to Know

Particle 'Ni' for Target

田中さんに聞きます。 (Ask Tanaka-san.)

Particle 'O' for Object

ラジオを聞きます。 (Listen to the radio.)

Te-form for Request

聞いてください。 (Please listen.)

Hearsay '~ to kikimashita'

雨だと聞きました。 (I heard it will rain.)

Potential 'Kikeru'

いい音楽が聞けます。 (I can listen to good music.)

Examples by Level

音楽を聞きます。

I listen to music.

Object + o + kikimasu.

ラジオを聞きますか。

Do you listen to the radio?

Question form with 'ka'.

毎日CDを聞きます。

I listen to CDs every day.

Adverb 'mainichi' + object + kikimasu.

日本語のテープを聞きます。

I listen to Japanese tapes.

Possessive 'no' modifying the object.

ポッドキャストを聞きません。

I do not listen to podcasts.

Negative form '-masen'.

ニュースを聞きました。

I heard the news.

Past tense '-mashita'.

母に聞きます。

I will ask my mother.

Person + ni + kikimasu (to ask).

名前を聞きます。

I will ask the name.

Object + o + kikimasu (to ask for information).

先生に質問を聞きました。

I asked the teacher a question.

Target (ni) + Content (o) + kikimashita.

駅で道を聞きました。

I asked for directions at the station.

Location (de) + object (o) + kikimashita.

いい音楽を聞いています。

I am listening to good music.

Te-form + imasu (progressive).

田中さんから聞きました。

I heard it from Mr. Tanaka.

Source (kara) + kikimashita.

よく聞いてください。

Please listen carefully.

Te-form + kudasai (request).

何も聞きませんでした。

I didn't hear/ask anything.

Indefinite pronoun 'nanimo' + negative.

友達に電話番号を聞きます。

I will ask my friend for their phone number.

Double object/target structure.

鳥の声を聞きました。

I heard the sound of birds.

Genitive 'no' for the source of the sound.

アドバイスを聞いたほうがいいです。

It is better to listen to advice.

Ta-form + hō ga ii (advice).

彼は人の話を聞きません。

He doesn't listen to what people say.

Using 'kiku' as 'to obey' or 'to pay attention to'.

昨日聞いたニュースは本当ですか。

Is the news I heard yesterday true?

Relative clause modifying 'nyūsu'.

お香を聞くのは日本の文化です。

Listening to incense is Japanese culture.

Cultural use of 'kiku' for smelling incense.

もし聞きたければ、教えますよ。

If you want to ask, I'll tell you.

Conditional 'ba' form with 'tai' (want to).

誰にも聞かずに自分で決めました。

I decided by myself without asking anyone.

Nai-form stem + zu ni (without doing).

噂を聞いたことがありますか。

Have you ever heard the rumor?

Ta-form + koto ga aru (experience).

先生の話を聞きながらメモを取ります。

I take notes while listening to the teacher.

Masu-stem + nagara (simultaneous action).

その件について、詳しくお聞きしたいです。

I would like to ask about that matter in detail.

Humble prefix 'o' + stem + shitai.

社長にお考えを聞きました。

I asked the president for his thoughts.

Honorific 'o' on 'kangae' (thoughts).

彼は聞き上手な人だと言われています。

It is said that he is a good listener.

Compound noun 'kikijōzu' (good listener).

その曲は何度聞いても飽きません。

I never get tired of that song no matter how many times I listen.

Te-form + mo (even if/no matter).

犯人は警察に事情を聞かれています。

The suspect is being questioned by the police.

Passive form 'kikareru' (to be asked/interrogated).

一を聞いて十を知る。

To hear one and understand ten (being very sharp).

Common Japanese proverb.

聞き捨てならない言葉ですね。

That's something I can't just let pass (I heard it and it's offensive).

Compound 'kikisuteru' (to ignore what was heard) + negative.

彼女が結婚すると聞きました。

I heard that she is getting married.

Plain form + to kikimashita (hearsay).

ご意見を拝聴させていただきました。

I had the honor of listening to your opinion.

Extra-modest 'haichō' + causative-humble 'sasete itadaku'.

その話は聞き及んでおります。

I have already heard about that matter.

Formal compound 'kiki-oyobu' (to happen to hear).

静寂の中に自然の声を聞く。

Listening to the voice of nature within the silence.

Literary/philosophical usage.

裁判官は証人の証言を慎重に聞いた。

The judge listened to the witness's testimony carefully.

Formal narrative style.

耳を澄ませて、微かな音を聞き取った。

I strained my ears and caught a faint sound.

Idiomatic 'mimi o sumaseru' + 'kikitoru'.

聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の恥。

To ask is a moment's shame, not to ask is a lifetime's shame.

Classical proverb structure.

彼の演奏には、聞く者を圧倒する力がある。

His performance has the power to overwhelm those who listen.

Noun-modifying clause 'kiku mono' (those who listen).

その件は聞き流しておいてください。

Please just ignore/take no notice of that matter.

Compound 'kikinagasu' in a polite request.

古の聖人の教えを聴聞する。

To listen to the teachings of ancient sages.

Archaic/Buddhist term 'chōmon' (listening to a sermon).

万物の声を聞く境地に達する。

To reach a state where one hears the voices of all things.

Highly abstract/spiritual usage.

風の音に秋の訪れを聞く。

Hearing the arrival of autumn in the sound of the wind.

Poetic synesthesia.

言外の意を汲み取って聞く必要がある。

It is necessary to listen by reading between the lines.

Advanced idiom 'gengai no i' (unspoken meaning).

その音楽は、魂の叫びを聞くかのようであった。

That music was as if one were hearing the cry of the soul.

Simile 'ka no yō' with profound subject matter.

聞きしに勝る美しさであった。

It was even more beautiful than what I had heard.

Classical Japanese 'kikishi' (that which was heard).

当局は参考人から事情を聴取している。

The authorities are hearing the circumstances from the person of interest.

Legal/bureaucratic term 'chōshu'.

聞くともなく聞いていた会話が、後に重要となった。

The conversation I was listening to without really listening later became important.

Advanced pattern 'verb-u to mo naku' (without intention).

Common Collocations

音楽を聞く

話を聞く

ニュースを聞く

道を聞く

言うことを聞く

意見を聞く

噂を聞く

名前を聞く

授業を聞く

音を聞く

Common Phrases

ちょっと聞いてください

— Please listen for a moment. Used to get someone's attention.

ちょっと聞いてください、いいニュースがあります。

よく聞きなさい

— Listen carefully. Often used by teachers or parents.

先生の説明をよく聞きなさい。

聞いて驚かないで

— Don't be surprised when you hear this. Used before sharing big news.

聞いて驚かないで、宝くじが当たったんだ。

誰に聞いたの？

— Who did you hear it from? Used to find the source of a rumor.

その話、誰に聞いたの？

聞くところによると

— According to what I've heard. Used to introduce hearsay.

聞くところによると、彼は会社を辞めるらしい。

聞いていないよ

— I wasn't told that! / I didn't hear that! Expressing surprise at omitted info.

そんなこと、何も聞いていないよ。

聞くだけ無駄だ

— It's useless to even ask. Used when you expect a negative or no response.

彼に聞くだけ無駄だよ。何も知らないから。

耳を貸して聞く

— To lend an ear and listen. Implies giving someone your attention.

彼女は私の悩みを親身になって聞いてくれた。

聞いて得する話

— Information that is beneficial to hear. Like a 'pro-tip'.

今日は聞いて得する話を持ってきました。

後で詳しく聞く

— I'll hear the details later. Used when busy.

今は時間がないから、後で詳しく聞くね。

Often Confused With

聞きます vs 効く (kiku)

Pronounced the same, but means 'to be effective' (e.g., medicine).

聞きます vs 利く (kiku)

Pronounced the same, but means 'to function well' (e.g., brakes or nose).

聞きます vs 聞ける (kikeru)

The potential form 'can listen,' often confused with 'kikoeru' (can hear).

Idioms & Expressions

"一を聞いて十を知る"

— To be so sharp that you understand ten things from hearing just one.

彼は一を聞いて十を知る秀才だ。

Complimentary

"聞くは一時の恥、聞かぬは一生の恥"

— To ask is a moment's shame, not to ask is a lifetime's shame. Better to ask now.

分からないことはすぐ聞きなさい。聞くは一時の恥だよ。

Proverb

"馬の耳に念仏"

— Chanting Buddhist prayers into a horse's ear. Like 'water off a duck's back' (not listening).

彼に注意しても馬の耳に念仏だ。

Idiomatic

"聞き流す"

— To let something go in one ear and out the other; to pay no attention.

嫌な小言は聞き流すことにしている。

Neutral

"聞き耳を立てる"

— To prick up one's ears; to listen intently or eavesdrop.

隣の部屋の会話に聞き耳を立てる。

Neutral

"聞き捨てならない"

— Something that cannot be overlooked or ignored once heard (usually offensive).

今の言葉は聞き捨てならない。謝ってください。

Serious

"聞き及ぶ"

— To happen to hear about something; to have heard (formal).

そのお噂はかねがね聞き及んでおります。

Formal

"聞き惚れる"

— To be enchanted or captivated by what one is hearing.

彼女の美しい歌声に聞き惚れてしまった。

Expressive

"小耳に挟む"

— To overhear something by chance; to catch a rumor.

彼が転勤するという話を小耳に挟んだ。

Idiomatic

"聞き飽きる"

— To be tired of hearing something; to have heard it too many times.

彼の自慢話はもう聞き飽きたよ。

Casual

Easily Confused

聞きます vs 聞こえる (kikoeru)

Both relate to sound.

Kikimasu is active (you choose to listen). Kikoeru is passive (the sound reaches you).

音楽を聞きます (I listen to music) vs 音楽が聞こえます (I can hear music).

聞きます vs 尋ねる (tazuneru)

Both mean 'to ask'.

Kiku is general. Tazuneru is more formal and often used for directions or specific inquiries.

道を尋ねます。

聞きます vs 伺う (ukagau)

Both mean 'to ask'.

Ukagau is the humble version used for superiors.

先生に伺います。

聞きます vs 問う (tou)

Both mean 'to ask/question'.

Tou is formal/academic and often used for 'questioning responsibility' or 'testing'.

真意を問う。

聞きます vs 聴く (kiku)

Identical pronunciation.

Kiku (聞) is general. Kiku (聴) is for focused listening like music or lectures.

名曲を聴く。

Sentence Patterns

[Object] を聞きます。

音楽を聞きます。

[Person] に聞きます。

先生に聞きます。

[Object] を聞いています。

ラジオを聞いています。

[Person] に [Object] を聞きます。

友達に電話番号を聞きます。

[Plain Form] と聞きました。

彼は来ないと聞きました。

[Object] を聞きながら [Action]。

音楽を聞きながら勉強します。

[Object] をお聞きしたいです。

お名前をお聞きしたいです。

[Object] を拝聴する。

ご講演を拝聴する。

Word Family

Nouns

聞き手 (kikite - listener)

聞き取り (kikitori - listening comprehension)

聞き役 (kikiyaku - person who plays the role of listener)

聞き書き (kikigaki - verbatim record)

Verbs

聞き直す (kikinaosu - to ask again)

聞き返す (kikikaesu - to ask back)

聞き比べる (kikikuraberu - to compare by listening)

聞き間違える (kikimachigaeru - to mishear)

Adjectives

聞き苦しい (kikigurushii - unpleasant to hear)

聞き慣れた (kikinareta - familiar sounding)

聞こえる (kikoeru - to be audible)

耳 (mimi - ear)

音 (oto - sound)

声 (koe - voice)

質問 (shitsumon - question)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely High (Top 100 verbs)

Common Mistakes

Using 'o' when asking a person. → 先生に聞きます。
Using 'o' implies you are literally listening to the sounds the teacher makes, not asking them a question.
Confusing 'kikimasu' with 'kikoemasu' on the phone. → 聞こえますか？ (Can you hear me?)
'Kikimasu ka' means 'Will you listen?'. To ask if the connection is good, use the potential form.
Using 'kiku' for asking a favor. → お願いします / 頼みます。
'Kiku' is only for questions/information. Favors require 'tanomu' or 'onegai'.
Overusing 'kikimasu' in business. → 伺います。
In formal settings, 'kikimasu' can sound too casual. The humble 'ukagaimasu' is preferred.
Mixing up 聞く and 効く in writing. → 薬が効く (Medicine works).
These are homophones. Ensure you use the 'ear' kanji for auditory contexts.

Tips

Particle Power

Always check your particles! 'Ni' means you are asking a person. 'O' means you are listening to a sound. This is the fastest way to avoid confusion.

The Art of Silence

In Japan, being a good 'kikite' (listener) is often more important than being a good speaker. Show you are listening by using 'aizuchi' (nodding and saying 'un' or 'hai').

Kanji Logic

The kanji for 'kiku' (聞) is an ear (耳) inside a gate (門). Imagine your ear is at the gate of information, waiting to let it in.

Music Nuance

When writing about music, try using 聴 instead of 聞. It shows you aren't just hearing the sound, but truly appreciating the art.

Softening Questions

Before asking a stranger something, say 'Sumimasen, chotto okiki shitai no desu ga...' to sound very polite and natural.

Potential vs. Active

Train your ears to distinguish 'kikimasu' from 'kikoemasu'. One is a choice, the other is just happening.

Business Humble

In an office, use 'ukagaimasu' instead of 'kikimasu' when talking to your boss. It makes you sound professional and respectful.

The Key Mnemonic

Think of 'KI-kimasu' as the 'KEY' to unlocking information from someone's 'EAR'.

Obeying

Remember that 'iu koto o kiku' means 'to obey'. If a parent says 'Kiite!', they aren't just asking you to hear them; they want you to follow orders!

Silent 'U'

Don't over-pronounce the 'u' at the end of 'kikimasu'. A sharp 'mas' sound is much more native-like.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **KEY** (ki) opening a **GATE** (kanji 門) to your **EAR** (kanji 耳). You use this 'key' to **KIKIMASU** (listen/ask).

Visual Association

Visualize an ear pressed against a large wooden gate, trying to catch a secret from the other side.

Word Web

Ear Sound Music Question Radio Information Obey Smell (Incense)

Challenge

Try to use 'kikimasu' three times today: once for music, once to ask a question, and once to describe a noise you heard.

Word Origin

The verb 'kiku' is derived from Old Japanese. The kanji 聞 consists of 門 (gate) and 耳 (ear).

Original meaning: To sense or receive information through the ear as if it were passing through a gateway.

Japonic

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'kiku' as 'to obey' with adults, as it can sound patronizing. Use 'shitagau' or other terms for professional obedience.

English speakers often struggle with 'kiku' meaning both 'listen' and 'ask'. In English, these are separate cognitive acts, but in Japanese, they are seen as two sides of receiving information.

Kimi no Na wa (Your Name) - Themes of 'hearing' voices across time. The Tale of Genji - Frequent mentions of 'listening' to insects or music. Modern J-Pop lyrics - Constantly use 'kiite' to beg a lover to listen.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Music/Hobbies

どんな音楽を聞きますか？
ジャズをよく聞きます。
新しいCDを聞きました。
イヤホンで聞きます。

Education/Learning

先生に聞いてください。
授業をしっかり聞きます。
リスニングを聞きます。
意味を聞いてもいいですか？

Directions/Travel

駅員さんに聞きましょう。
道を聞いてもいいですか？
交番で聞きました。
場所を聞き忘れました。

Socializing

ちょっと聞いて！
噂を聞いたんだけど...
彼の話を聞いてあげて。
誰から聞いたの？

Work/Business

ご意見をお聞きしたいです。
会議の内容を聞きましたか？
詳細は後で聞きます。
お客様に伺います。

Conversation Starters

"最近、どんな音楽をよく聞きますか？ (What music have you been listening to lately?)"

"昨日のニュースを聞きましたか？ (Did you hear yesterday's news?)"

"分からない時、誰に聞きますか？ (When you don't understand, who do you ask?)"

"ポッドキャストをよく聞きますか？ (Do you often listen to podcasts?)"

"日本語のリスニングはどこで聞きますか？ (Where do you listen to Japanese listening practice?)"

Journal Prompts

今日聞いた面白い話について書いてください。 (Write about an interesting story you heard today.)

あなたが一番好きな音楽について、どうしてそれを聞くのか書いてください。 (Write about your favorite music and why you listen to it.)

最近、誰かに質問したことを思い出して書いてください。 (Think of something you asked someone recently and write about it.)

「聞く」ことと「話す」こと、どちらが大切だと思いますか。 (Which do you think is more important, listening or speaking?)

もし自然の声が聞けたら、何を聞きたいですか。 (If you could hear the voice of nature, what would you want to hear?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it frequently means 'to ask'. The meaning is usually determined by the particle: 'o' for listening and 'ni' for asking. For example, 'Ongaku o kikimasu' is 'I listen to music', while 'Sensei ni kikimasu' is 'I will ask the teacher'.

You can say 'Uwasa o kikimashita'. If you want to say 'I heard that [something happened]', use the plain form followed by 'to kikimashita', like 'Ame ga furu to kikimashita' (I heard it will rain).

'Kiku' is an intentional action (listening/asking), while 'kikoeru' describes the ability to hear something or sound being audible. 'Rajio o kiku' means you turned on the radio to listen. 'Rajio ga kikoeru' means you can hear a radio playing somewhere.

Yes, but only in the very specific context of the traditional Japanese incense ceremony (Kōdō). In this case, you 'listen' to the incense (o-kō o kiku) rather than just smelling it, implying a deep appreciation.

The negative past tense is 'kikimasen deshita' (did not listen/ask). For example, 'Nanimo kikimasen deshita' means 'I didn't hear/ask anything'.

You can say 'Michi o kikimasu' (I will ask the way). A common polite way to start is 'Chotto okiki shimasu ga...' (I have a quick question...).

It is a Group 1 (Godan) verb. Its dictionary form ends in 'ku', so the 'ku' changes to 'ki' before adding 'masu'.

You can say 'Kiite imasu'. This uses the Te-form (kiite) plus 'imasu' to show a continuous action.

It literally means 'to listen to the things said,' but it idiomatically means 'to obey' or 'to do what one is told.' It's often used with children or pets.

No, that is a common mistake. To ask a favor, use 'tanomimasu' or 'onegaishimasu'. 'Kikimasu' is only for asking for information or questions.