Japanese · Greetings & Phrases
わかりません
wakarimasen
I don't understand
Beginnerphrase
Definition
Used to express that you do not understand something. The affirmative form わかります (wakarimasu) means "I understand."
Example
すみません、もう少しゆっくり話してください。わかりません。
Excuse me, please speak a little more slowly. I don't understand.
Etymology
'わかりません' (wakarimasen) comes from the verb 'わかる' (wakaru, 'to understand') in its negative form, reflecting incomprehension.
How & Where It’s Used
'わかりません' is used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate a lack of understanding, primarily in spoken language.