Do you have an interest in Japan?Do you want to learn another language without committing to a strict regime?Learning a language can be fun and challenging at the same time, but many people don't want to invest in courses or lessons in a classroom.By studying the basics, practicing the language, and exploring Japanese in new ways, you can experience the joy of learning a new language.
Step 1: Look at Japanese writing systems.
Four writing systems are used in the Japanese language.You will need to study each of them in order to learn Japanese.You can take beginning lessons to learn each writing system by visiting www.tofugu.com/japanese.The Japanese alphabet is called Hiragana.It has 51 characters.Each character has a single sound.Study and memorize these characters.You will be able to pronounce any word in Japanese once you understand Hiragana.There are characters that stand for non-Japanese words, such as fast food or California.It is a good idea to learn the Katakana phrases.Chinese symbols are used to stand for words and phrases in Japanese.Kanji symbols are more similar to letters than to Hiragana symbols.English letters are used to spell Japanese words.If you rely too much on it, you will not move on to a real understanding of the language.The focus should be on Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji.
Step 2: You can practice Japanese pronunciation.
The Japanese language has 46 sounds.The sounds are made up of one of five vowels.There is only one exception, which is a sound composed of a single letter.Learning how to pronounce each character in hiragana and katakana will allow you to begin studying pronunciation.To learn Japanese pronunciation, visit http://www.forvo.com/languages/ja.
Step 3: Key phrases can be learned.
Knowing some key phrases will allow you to practice.It's okay for beginners to use Romaji to learn the basic phrases.Hello, Kon'nichiwa, nice to meet you, Hajime, goodbye, Sayonara, I'm fine, thanks, Watashiwa.Arigato.Thank you very much, Domo arigato gozaimasu, Kudasai Please, and Dozo Do you understand?Wakarimasuka.
Step 4: The rules of writing.
Don't apply English rules of grammar to your Japanese study because it's very different from English.It will take some time to get used to.Purchase a Japanese workbooks and follow the lessons."Practice Makes Perfect: Basic Japanese" and "A Guide to Japanese Grammar" are examples.You can find free online resources to study Japanese.Nouns do not have a gender.Most nouns don't have separate forms.The subject is optional in Japanese.The end of the sentence is where the predicate is.They don't change according to the subject.They don't change according to number.The level of formality of a given situation affects personal pronouns.
Step 5: You need to strengthen your grasp on the writing systems.
If you want to understand Japanese, you need to study all four of the Japanese written systems.You can learn hiagana and katakana in a few weeks, and use them to write anything you want in Japanese.It will take a long time to learn, but it is important.Practice Kanji as well.A good book is a great way to start practicing.You may want to try online resources.
Step 6: Talk to someone online.
Video-chat with a native speaker is a great way to practice Japanese.There are online resources that pair language partners together.Start practicing with someone 1-2 times per week if you find them to be a good fit.To find an online language partner, look into My Language Exchange or The Mixxer.
Step 7: You can use flashcards.
Purchase Japanese language flashcards or make them yourself.To study specific phrases, and to memorize the basics of the language, you can purchase flashcards.You can use flashcards to strengthen your vocabulary in all three language systems.You can label items with their Japanese names by posting flashcards around your house.You can have a friend quiz you with flashcards.You can use the flashcards to quiz yourself.
Step 8: Use online resources.
There are online language programs that can help you learn and practice Japanese.Make practicing Japanese a daily routine by looking for free resources.
Step 9: Don't forget to read.
There are comic books, newspapers, and Japanese books.You expose yourself to new words when you try to read in Japanese.
Step 10: Japanese movies can be watched.
You can expose yourself to Japanese by watching Japanese movies.Slang and a wider range of terms can be exposed in movies.English subtitles can be used to help you understand the plot.
Step 11: Listen to radio in Japan.
Japanese radio is a great way to hear new words and improve your listening skills.You can find Japanese music with lyrics or Japanese talk radio.
Step 12: You have to immerse yourself.
If you have the chance to immerse yourself in the Japanese language, take it!Maybe you can visit Japan or an authentic Japanese restaurant.This will allow you to speak to people in Japanese.There is no better way to learn a new language.