〜ません is the polite negative form of verbs in the ます style. It means “do not” or “does not.” You use it to say something is not done in the present or future. Key points: • Replace ます with ません to make a negative • Polite and safe for everyday conversations • Covers present and future negative • Often used with time words for clarity For example, “食べます” becomes “食べません” (do not eat). “行きます” becomes “行きません” (do not go / will not go). Time words help show the meaning: “今日は行きません” means “I am not going today.” “明日は行きません” means “I will not go tomorrow.” The structure stays the same; only the verb ending changes. This makes it easy to turn any polite sentence into a polite negative. As a beginner, focus on common verbs and practice switching ます to ません. Once you are comfortable, you will be able to express simple negatives clearly and politely.