〜てある

〜てある is a て-form extension that expresses is in a state of (done). The て-form is one of the most productive patterns in Japanese — by combining it with various helper verbs and expressions, you can express a wide range of meanings from ongoing actions to requests to sequential events.

This is an intermediate pattern used regularly in everyday Japanese conversation and writing.

When to Use#

• When describing a state that resulted from someone's deliberate action
• When something has been prepared or arranged intentionally

When NOT to Use#

• When the meaning is closer to "ongoing action / state" — use 〜ている instead
• In very formal writing where a more sophisticated expression would be expected

Example Sentences#

• 窓が開けてあります。 — The windows have been opened.
• ご飯はもう炊いてあります。 — The rice is already cooked.
• お皿はもう洗ってあります。 — The dishes are already washed.

Practice#

Try reading these sentences aloud, then check the translation and vocabulary:

Common Mistakes#

1. Confusing 〜てある with 〜ている — While both are related, 〜てある expresses "is in a state of (done)" whereas 〜ている expresses "ongoing action / state." Pay attention to the specific nuance each pattern conveys.
2. Incorrect て-form conjugation — Make sure you correctly form the て-form of the preceding verb before attaching this pattern. Group 1 verbs have sound changes (く→いて, ぐ→いで, す→して, etc.).

Related Patterns#

• 〜ている (ongoing action / state) — Compare
• 〜てください (please do ~) — Foundation