「存じています」- Polite Expression for "Know"

Explanation

存じています (ぞんじています) is a formal and polite expression used to convey "know" in a respectful manner. It is formed by using the て-form of the verb 「存じる (ぞんじる)」, which is a humble expression (謙譲語), followed by 「います」. This structure is used to indicate that the speaker is aware of something in a respectful way.

Grammar Pattern

Grammar Point	Connection	Explanation
存じています	て-form of 「存じる」 + います	Indicates awareness or knowledge of something, used in formal contexts to show respect.

Basic Usage

「存じています」 is typically used in formal situations such as business meetings, formal speeches, or conversations with superiors or clients. It conveys respect and politeness towards the listener.

Examples

• 先生せんせいは山下やましたさんの住所じゅうしょを存ぞんじていますじていますか。
• Sensei wa Yamashita-san no juusho o zonjiteimasu ka.
• Do you know Mr. Yamashita's address?
  

Deep Dive

Basic Concept

The structure of 「存じています」 consists of the て-form of 「存じる」 (「存じて」) followed by 「います」, which indicates the continuation of an action or the existence of a state.

Comparison and Differences

While 「存じています」 and 「知っています (しっています)」 both mean "know," their usage and contexts differ. 「存じています」 is used in formal or respectful situations, whereas 「知っています」 is used in casual or everyday conversations.

Expression	Usage	Example	English Translation
存じています	Formal contexts	私わたしはその件けんを存ぞんじていますじています。	I am aware of that matter. (More formal and polite)
知っています	Casual contexts	私わたしはその件けんを知しっています。	I know about that matter.

Real-Life Scenarios

In workplaces or formal settings, 「存じています」 is used when speaking to superiors, clients, or people you are not familiar with to show respect.

Example Dialogue:

• A: 田中たなか部長ぶちょう、今度こんどの会議かいぎの場所ばしょを存ぞんじていますじていますか？
• Tanaka-buchou, kondo no kaigi no basho o zonjiteimasu ka?
• Manager Tanaka, do you know the location of the upcoming meeting?
  
• B: はい、会議室かいぎしつBです。
• Hai, kaigishitsu B desu.
• Yes, it's in Meeting Room B.
  

More Examples:

• 彼かれの電話番号でんわばんごうを存ぞんじていますじていますか？
• Kare no denwa bangou o zonjiteimasu ka?
• Do you know his phone number?
  
• その資料しりょうについて存ぞんじていますじています。
• Sono shiryou ni tsuite zonjiteimasu.
• I am aware of that document.
  

Common Mistakes

• Confusing the usage of 「存じています」 and 「知っています」. Remember that 「存じています」 is for formal contexts, while 「知っています」 is for casual conversations.
• When using 「存じています」, ensure that the situation calls for a respectful expression.

Summary

「存じています」 is an essential Japanese expression, especially in formal settings. By using this phrase, you can effectively show respect and politeness towards others. Understanding and mastering the use of 「存じています」 is crucial for improving the appropriateness and politeness of your Japanese communication.