〜てある indicates that something is in a state resulting from someone's intentional action. It emphasizes the current state, not who did it.
Formation: Transitive verb て-form + ある
A lunch box has been prepared (for someone).
Key distinction from 〜ている:
| | ている | てある |
|---|--------|--------|
| Focus | State exists | Someone did it on purpose |
| Verb type | Any | Transitive only |
| Example | 窓が開いている (is open) | 窓が開けてある (was opened intentionally) |
Implications:
• Someone did it purposefully
• Often implies preparation or forethought
• The agent is unmentioned but understood
Common patterns:
• 準備してある - Has been prepared
• 書いてある - Is written (by someone)
• 用意してある - Has been arranged
てある = result state, ている = action in progress
- 窓が開けてある (window has been opened [for a reason])
- 窓が開いている (window is open)
Implies intentional prior action
- ケーキが買ってある (Cake has been bought [ready])
Object takes が, not を
The window has been opened (intentionally).
The beer has been chilled (for later).
The name is written (there).
The air conditioner has been turned on (intentionally).
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