Blog
- japanese test
- Sep 25, 2024
Essential Japanese Words and Phrases for Beginners
Learning Japanese can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you start with the basics. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, looking to communicate with friends, or simply interested in the language, knowing some fundamental words and phrases will go a long way. Here’s a helpful guide to get you started!
1. Greetings
- ????? (Konnichiwa) - Hello / Good afternoon
- ????????? (Ohayou gozaimasu) - Good morning
- ????? (Konbanwa) - Good evening
- ????? (Sayounara) - Goodbye
- ????? (Arigatou) - Thank you
- ????? (Sumimasen) - Excuse me / I’m sorry
2. Common Expressions
- ?? (Hai) - Yes
- ??? (Iie) - No
- ?????? (Onegaishimasu) - Please
- ????? (Wakarimasu) - I understand
- ?????? (Wakarimasen) - I don’t understand
3. Basic Questions
- ????? (Nan desu ka?) - What is it?
- ?????? (Doko desu ka?) - Where is it?
- ?????? (Itsu desu ka?) - When is it?
- ????? (Dare desu ka?) - Who is it?
4. Numbers
- ? (??, Ichi) - One
- ? (?, Ni) - Two
- ? (??, San) - Three
- ? (? / ??, Shi / Yon) - Four
- ? (?, Go) - Five
5. Everyday Vocabulary
- ?? (Hai) - Yes
- ??? (Iie) - No
- ?? (???, O-mizu) - Water
- ?? (???, Gohan) - Rice / Meal
- ?? (????, Tomodachi) - Friend
6. Polite Phrases
- ?????? (Otsukaresama desu) - Thank you for your hard work (commonly used among colleagues)
- ???????? (Osaki ni shitsurei shimasu) - Excuse me for leaving before you (used in a work context)
7. Basic Survival Phrases
- ??????? (Tasukete kudasai) - Please help me.
- ?????????? (Toire wa doko desu ka?) - Where is the restroom?
- ??????? (Kore o kudasai) - I would like this, please.
Conclusion
Mastering these basic Japanese words and phrases is a great first step in your language-learning journey. Practice them regularly, and don’t be afraid to use them in conversation. The more you engage with the language, the more confident you’ll become. Happy learning, and ganbatte kudasai! (Do your best!)