Do you want to learn Japanese but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’ve started learning but hit a plateau and don’t know how to progress any further. In either case, these tips will help you learn Japanese faster and more effectively!
The Challenges of Learning Japanese
When it comes to learning Japanese, there is a common belief that it is significantly more difficult than any other language. However, this is not always the case. With the right tools and resources, and by taking Japanese lessons, you can reach your goal of fluency.
If you are willing to put in the time and effort, you can learn Japanese and enjoy all that the language has to offer.
11 Ways to Make Quick Progress with Japanese
When it comes to language learning, the basics are always the most important. You need to make sure you have a strong foundation before you start trying to build on it. Once you have the basics down, then you can start establishing a regular study routine. This will help you make steady progress and avoid getting overwhelmed. Finally, immerse yourself in the culture. This is one of the best ways to learn a language and get a feel for the people who speak it.
1. How to Read and Write in Japanese
Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji are all writing systems used in Japanese. Hiragana is used for native Japanese words and consists of 46 characters or 51 phonetic characters. Katakana is used for non-Japanese or loanwords: a word adopted from a foreign language. Kanji consists of thousands of Chinese symbols that represent entire words, ideas, or phrases. Learning these writing systems is essential to be able to read and write in Japanese.
2. Best Way to Learn Japanese Grammar
To learn Japanese grammar perfectly, you have to forget everything you know about English grammar. Japanese has only two tenses—past and non-past—but there are two forms: polite and plain. The best books to learn Japanese grammar are Practice Makes Perfect: Basic Japanese; A Guide to Japanese Grammar by Tae Kim; and Japanese Hiragana & Katakana for Beginners.
3. Learning Japanese Phrases: The Key to Speaking the Language
Learning key phrases is a great way to start speaking Japanese. Knowing common expressions like “Hello” and “Nice to meet you” will help you join conversations with native speakers. However, the 100+ most important Japanese words can be extremely helpful if you ever decide to visit or relocate to Japan. These words will give you a basic understanding of the language and help you get by in everyday conversations.
4. Mastering Japanese: How to set up a schedule for daily lessons
It is important to set up a schedule when learning a new language. This is especially true for Japanese, as the language can be quite challenging to learn. It is necessary to practice every day if you want to see fast progress. Thankfully, there are many apps and learning strategies available to help you find a daily lesson schedule that works for you.
5. The Best Language Learning Apps for Japanese
Anyone looking to learn some basic Japanese phrases and vocabulary can find a variety of useful language-learning apps. Duolingo, Memrise, and Rosetta Stone are all popular options that can help you get started. However, it’s important to remember that these apps should not be the only resource used to learn a new language. To improve your skills, you need to engage in real-world interaction with native speakers. Try finding a language partner or online tutor to help you speak regularly. This will undoubtedly improve your fluency and comprehension.
6. Flashcards Help You Memorize Japanese Words
Flashcards are great tools for language learners because they provide a way to memorize new words. You can either purchase flashcards online or make them yourself. Flashcards are also a great way to strengthen your vocabulary in all three systems: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji.
7. How to Practice Speaking Japanese with a Native Speaker
If you’re interested in practicing your Japanese speaking skills, there are a few great tools that can help you get started. One option is to use 1-on-1 video chats to find a language partner who speaks Japanese. This can be a great way to improve your conversation skills, and you can also learn about the culture and customs of Japan.
Another option is to try online tools like HelloTalk, Lextalk, or MyLanguageExchange. These tools allow you to find people who are interested in learning your language, and they provide a platform for exchanging messages and speaking with each other.
Finally, if you’re looking for a more structured learning experience, you can browse Preply‘s expert Japanese tutors. These tutors can help you start speaking Japanese from lesson #1, and they can tailor the lessons to your specific needs and goals.
8. Manga: The Heart of Japanese Culture
Manga is a crucial part of Japanese culture and it has a long history. It is comics or graphic novels, and it can be especially helpful for language learners. It’s at the heart of Japanese pop culture and it’s widely known outside of the country. The illustrations and stories in manga can help people understand Japanese culture and the Japanese language.
9. How to Learn Japanese with Anime
Source: That Japanese Man Yuta
Anime has become a huge phenomenon all over the world, with people of all ages watching it for different reasons. For some, it’s simply entertainment, but for others, it can be a valuable learning tool.
A unique type of Japanese animation that has been gaining popularity all over the world for decades. Unlike American cartoons, anime is produced in Japan and typically has a more mature tone. This makes it a great resource for learning about Japanese culture and slang.
Additionally, anime is an excellent way to improve your listening skills. Since the dialogue is spoken in Japanese, you’ll have to pay close attention to follow the story line. This will help you improve your comprehension and make you less reliant on subtitles.
10. Best Podcasts to Help You Learn Japanese
If you’re looking for a way to improve your Japanese listening skills and learn more about Japan’s culture, then podcasts are a great option. In particular, the Learn Japanese Pod Podcasts can help you with both of those things. Each episode includes a script in Japanese, which is accompanied by a translated transcript. Plus, the NHK podcast tells the story of Anna, a character who comes to Japan to study Japanese. The lessons are brief, but they include scripts with English translations. If you want more options, check out 5 podcasts to learn Japanese on the go.
11. It’s Okay to Make Mistakes When Learning Japanese
When learning a new language, it’s important to keep in mind that mistakes are bound to happen. This is especially true when it comes to Japanese, as the language is known for its complex grammar and pronunciation. However, don’t let this discourage you; mistakes are an essential part of the learning process.
That said, if you’re having trouble with certain aspects of the language, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Native Japanese speakers will likely be happy to provide some guidance, but they may not want to correct you out of respect. In these cases, make it clear that you’d appreciate some assistance. With a little effort and patience, you’ll be speaking Japanese like a pro in no time!
Final Thoughts
Japanese is a beautiful and unique language that can be difficult to learn, but with these tips, you should be well on your way to becoming conversational in no time. Be patient, find a method that works for you, and most importantly, don’t give up.