JLPT N3 reference · Aspect and change
てしまう completion and regret
The pattern marks complete disposal of an action or an event viewed with regret, surprise, or lack of control.
Core meaning and form
Attach しまう to the て-form; conversational contractions include ちゃう and じゃう. Context decides whether completion is neutral or emotionally unwelcome.
- Form: Attach しまう to the て-form; conversational contractions include ちゃう and じゃう.
- Core use: The pattern marks complete disposal of an action or an event viewed with regret, surprise, or lack of control.
- Context: Context decides whether completion is neutral or emotionally unwelcome.
Examples in context
宿題を全部してしまいました。Shukudai o zenbu shite shimaimashita.I finished all the homework.
財布をなくしてしまった。Saifu o nakushite shimatta.I unfortunately lost my wallet.
ケーキを食べちゃった。Kēki o tabechatta.I went and ate the cake.
Common errors
- Do not select this pattern from an English translation alone; check its attachment and discourse function.
- Keep the surrounding sentence in a consistent plain, polite, spoken, or written register.
Quick summary
- Attach しまう to the て-form; conversational contractions include ちゃう and じゃう.
- The pattern marks complete disposal of an action or an event viewed with regret, surprise, or lack of control.
- Context decides whether completion is neutral or emotionally unwelcome.