ているResulting state
ている can describe a state that exists now because an earlier change or event has already happened. The natural English translation is often a simple state such as “is open,” “is broken,” or “knows,” rather than “is doing.”
An earlier change, a present state
The verb first suggests a change, and ている presents the condition left by that change. For example, something opened earlier and is now open, or something broke earlier and is now broken. The sentence usually focuses on the state, not on who caused it or exactly when it happened.
Current resulting states
These sentences describe conditions that hold now.
Common expressions translated as simple states
Some very common expressions have a natural state meaning. 知っている normally means “know,” and 結婚している normally means “be married.” Translating them as “is knowing” or “is marrying” gives the wrong picture.
Established state meanings
Past and negative states
The ending on いる shows whether the state exists now, existed in the past, or does not exist.
Two important contrasts
ている can also present a dynamic action as currently unfolding. Context and the verb's meaning tell you whether the sentence describes that ongoing action or a state left by a completed change. By contrast, てある normally presents a state intentionally arranged by someone's earlier action. Result-state ている is broader and does not itself imply deliberate preparation.
会議のために、いすが並べてあります。
The chairs have been arranged for the meeting.
AnalyzeThis neighboring form emphasizes an intentionally prepared state.
More examples
ドアが少し開いています。
The door is slightly open.
Analyze駅の前に人が集まっています。
People are gathered in front of the station.
Analyze電気がついているから、まだだれかいます。
The light is on, so someone is still there.
Analyze彼は黒いコートを着ています。
He is wearing a black coat.
Analyze朝は店が閉まっていました。
The shop was closed in the morning.
Analyzeまだ電気がついていません。
The light is not on yet.
Analyze