あります vs います——有生命和沒生命，動詞不一樣

Meaning

This grammar pattern expresses the existence of people, animals, and objects. Use あります for non-living things and います for people and animals. Both follow the structure: [Noun] + が + [あります/います]. The particle が marks the subject that exists.

Formation

Examples

1. じどうはんばいきが あります。
   There is a vending machine.

2. はなが あります。
   There is a flower.

3. やまださんが います。
   Yamada is here/present.

4. ねこが います。
   There is a cat.

Summary

• Use あります for non-living objects (things, items, abstract nouns)
• Use います for living beings (people, animals)
• Particle が marks the subject whose existence is being stated