Hiragana is the Japanese alphabet. It consists of 51 phonetic characters. Each character stands for one sound. Begin by studying and memorizing these characters. Once you understand Hiragana, you will know how to pronounce any word in Japanese. [1] X Research source Katakana is a series of characters used to stand for non-Japanese words (such as fast food or California). It is a good idea to learn the Katakana phrases for words you commonly use. [2] X Research source Kanji are actually Chinese symbols that are used to stand for words and phrases in Japanese. Whereas Hiragana symbols are more like “letters” (depicting simple sounds), Kanji symbols depict complete words. [3] X Research source Romaji is a system of using English letters to spell Japanese words. A little Romaji will be helpful at first (especially for learning initial key phrases) but if you rely too much on on it, you are unlikely to move on to a real understanding of the language. Instead, focus mostly on Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. [4] X Research source
Visit http://www. forvo. com/languages/ja/ to take beginning lessons in Japanese pronunciation.
Hello - Kon’nichiwa Nice to meet you - Hajime mash’te Goodbye - Sayonara I’m fine, thanks - Watashiwa genki desu. Arigato. Thank you very much - Domo arigato gozaimasu Please (asking for something) - Kudasai Please (offering something) - Dozo Do you understand? Wakarimasuka
Nouns do not have gender. Also, most nouns don’t have separate plural forms. In Japanese, the subject is optional and may be omitted. The predicate is always at the end of the sentence. Verbs do not change according to the subject (he/she/it). They also don’t change according to number (singular/plural, like I/we or he/they). [7] X Research source Personal pronouns (such as I or you) differ according to the level of formality of a given situation.
A good workbook is a great way to begin practicing your reading and writing. You may also want to try online resources, like Duolingo.
Look into My Language Exchange[9] X Research source or The Mixxer[10] X Research source to locate an online language partner.
Try posting the flashcards around your house to label items with their Japanese names. Have a friend quiz you with flashcards to practice your memorization. Use the flashcards to quiz yourself.
