It is essential to learn Japanese vocabulary when studying the language. In addition to words borrowed from other languages, Japanese vocabulary is vast and diverse. Learning essential words and phrases, as well as specialized terminology and idiomatic expressions, is essential for effective communication in Japanese.

JLPT N4 Grammar: ていた (te ita) Meaning

The grammar form “ていた” (te ita) is the past tense form of the verb “ている” (te iru). This form is used to indicate that an action or state was ongoing or continuing in the past. It can be translated to English as “was (verb-ing)” or “had been (verb-ing)”.

FORM

“Verb-て + いた”

Examples

1. 夢を見ていた。 I was dreaming.  
2. トムは寝ていた。 Tom was sleeping.  
3. そう　思っていた。 I was thinking so. = I thought so.  
4. トムは泣いていた。 Tom was crying.  
5. トムは酔っていた。 Tom was drunk.  
6. 彼は銃を携えていた He was carrying a gun.  
7. 山頂は霧で煙っていた The top of the mountain was hazy due to the fog.  
8. 彼は緊張していたな。 He was nervous.  
9. 扇風機が回っていた。 The electric fan was spinning.  
10. 昼間ずっと寝ていた。 I had been sleeping during the day.