行った
itta
The English word "went" is translated into Japanese as 行った (itta).
行った is the past tense of the verb for "go", used to describe the act of moving from one place to another.
Which one should you use?
行った (itta) is the plain form of the verb, whereas 行きました (ikimashita) is the polite past tense form.
How does it change in a sentence?
行った is the plain/informal past tense form derived from the verb iku. While 行った is used in casual settings, the polite form 行きました is used when speaking politely.
How do you pronounce it?
itta
Did you know?
- The verb iku (to go) is often used as a euphemism for 'orgasm' in adult contexts or slang. Using it in the wrong tone or setting can lead to an embarrassing misunderstanding.
- In Japanese, itta is a homophone for the past tense of 'to say' (言った). Listeners must rely entirely on context or kanji to know if someone 'went' or 'said' something.
- When describing a trip that is already completed, Japanese people often use itte kita, which literally means 'went and came back', rather than just itta.
Examples in context
- 私も行った。I also went.This sentence shows how to use the form 行った to say that you also went.Tatoeba #152192 by bunbuku, translation #262358 by CK
- 釣りに行った。I went fishing.This sentence demonstrates using 行った to describe going fishing.Tatoeba #125558 by bunbuku, translation #278435 by CK
- 病院に行った。I went to the hospital.This sentence shows using 行った to describe going to the hospital.Tatoeba #2661778 by e4zh1nmcz, translation #2661742 by CK
- 453 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a recent weekend trip.
- 陽太 Yota昨日、どこに行ったの？Kinou, doko ni itta no?Where did you go yesterday?
- 結衣 Yui公園に行ったよ。Kouen ni itta yo.I went to the park.
- 陽太 Yota楽しかった？Tanoshikatta?Was it fun?
- 結衣 Yuiうん、とても楽しかった！Un, totemo tanoshikatta!Yes, it was very fun!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
