Sentence Structure

In this guide to Basic Japanese Grammar,  we will explain in broad terms, the most used Japanese sentence patterns and how to alter them to change them from positive statements to negative statements, as well as how to ask questions while using them. We will continue this series with part II – Grammar Particles

Basic Japanese Sentence Patterns

In broad terms, Japanese sentences can be divided into the following three patterns.

Watashi wa Nihon-jin desu. I am a Japanese person. [Noun Phrase]
私は日本人です。
Meari-san wa isogashii desu. Mary-san is busy.  [Adjective phrase]
メアリーさんは忙しいです。
Tanaka-san wa ramen o tabemasu. Tanaka-san eats ramen. [Verb Phrase]
田中さんはラメンを食べます。

“Desu” has a similar function to “to be” in English, and comes at the end of Noun and Adjective Phrases.  Verb Phrases end with [-masu].
“Wa” is a particle that denotes topics and subjects. (The particles “ga” and “mo” can also indicate a subject.  

Negative Sentences

Negative Sentences are made by modifying the end of a predicate, which is typically the last part of a sentence.  This grammatical structure is the reason that one must listen to the very end of a Japanese sentence to know whether it is negative or affirmative.

Watashi wa Nihon-jin jya-arimasen. I am not a Japanese person. [Neg. Noun Phrase]
私は日本人じゃありません.
Meari-San wa isogashiku nai desu.  Mary-San is not busy. [Negative Adjective Phrase]
メアリーさんは忙しくないです.   
Tanaka-San wa ramen o tabemasen. Tanaka-San does not eat ramen. [Neg. Verb Phrase]
田中さんはラーメンを食べません.

Interrogative Sentences (Questions)

Attach “ka” to the end of a Declarative Sentence to create an Interrogative Sentence.

Meari-san wa isogashii desu ka.        Is Mary san busy?
メアリーさんは忙しいですか?
Tanaka-san wa ramen o tabemasu ka.        Does Tanaka-San eat ramen?
田中さんはラーメンを食べますか?

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Is this helpful to you? More Basic Japanese Grammar Series
Basic Grammar Guide Part II
Basic Grammar Guide Part III
Basic Grammar Guide Part IV
30 Must-know JLPT N5 Grammar Points

Start taking Japanese lessons and master basic Japanese grammar!


First, watch Yuka-sensei’s video above about the JLPT N4 Grammar!

If you have been studying Japanese for a while now – there’s a good chance you have come across the Japanese grammar point も (mo).

As we stated in this article on basic Japanese grammar, the particle も is often used to signify similarity and agreement in Japanese.  However, it can also be used to add emphasis to quantity or quantities.

In this blog article, we will examine the emphasis use of も, such as how to say “that many?!”
This expression may appear on the JLPT N4 as well – so make note of its use!

JLPT N4 Grammar: Using も to Express “That many?”

Since this expression emphasizes quantity, も is used with counters. In Japanese, there are several different counters depending on the shape or matter of the object being counting.

For example, 枚 (まい/mai) is the counter for flat things, such as plates or pieces of paper, and 台 (だい/dai) is used to count machines and motor vehicles.

The structure is:
number + counter + も

Example: Food

A: ケーキを30個食べました。
keeki o sanjyuu ko mo tabemashita
I ate 30 cakes.
B: え、30個も食べたんですか?
E, sanjyuu ko mo tabetan desu ka?
Eh, you ate that many?

In Yuka-sensei’s example above, the literal translation is something like “you ate as many as 30 cakes?”  However for conversation, a more accurate translation of this phrase into natural English would be merely:

Eh, you ate that many?

Saying も after repeating the quantity adds emphasis in Japanese, indicating surprise and/or that something is impressive.

Example: Cars

A: 私の友達は、車を5台持っています!
Watashi no tomodachi wa, kuruma o go dai motteimasu
I have a friend who owns 5 cars!
B: え、5台も持っているんですか?
Eh, go dai mo motteirun desu ka?
What, they own 5 cars?
These expressions often end with んですか?

As Yuka-sensei points out in the video above, this is a way to add more emotion to what you are saying.  It conveys interest or even curiosity in what the other party is telling them.

Now you can practice using this yourself either in studying for the JLPT, or in your daily conversations!

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In Japanese, there are several words that can be used to say “But” or “however” – such as kedo, shikashi, and demo.

Today we will look at the word でも (demo) and how it can be used in a Japanese conversation. It’s one of the most essential JLPT N5 grammar points.

In Japanese, the word for “But” is でも。

It usually appears at the beginning of a sentence after an initial concept.

For example:

日本人ともっと話したいです。でも、私の日本語はあまり上手ではありません。
nihonjin to motto hanashitai desu. demo, watashi no nihongo wa amari jouzu dewa arimasen.
I want to speak to Japanese people more. But my Japanese is not so good.

or

スーパーに行きました。でも、閉まっていた。
Suu-paa – ni ikimashita. demo, shmatteita.
I went to the supermarket, but it was closed

Demo is often used to start a new sentence or to connect two ideas together.

Grammar Point: でも

でも is a conjunctive particle that is used to connect two clauses. It is similar to the English word “but” in that it is used to contrast two ideas. However, there are a few key differences between the two words.

First, でも can be used at the beginning of a sentence, but “but” cannot. For example:

  • でも、私は日本語が下手です。 (Demo, watashi wa nihongo ga heta desu.) – But I am not good at Japanese.

Second, でも is more informal than “but.” It is commonly used in everyday conversation, but it is not as appropriate for formal writing.

How to Use でも

でも can be used in a variety of ways to express different shades of meaning. Here are a few examples:

  • To contrast two ideas:
  • 私は日本語が話せます。でも、日本語が書けません。 (Watashi wa nihongo ga hanasemasu. Demo, nihongo ga kaけません.) – I can speak Japanese, but I cannot write Japanese.
  • To express a concession:
  • 今日は忙しいです。でも、あなたのために時間を作ります。 (Kyou wa isogashii desu. Demo, anata no tame ni jikan wo tsukurimasu.) – I am busy today, but I will make time for you.
  • To express a reservation:
  • 私は日本語が上手だと思います。でも、まだまだ勉強が必要です。 (Watashi wa nihongo ga umai to omoimasu. Demo, madamada benkyou ga hitsuyō desu.) – I think I am good at Japanese, but I still need to study.

Examples of でも in Japanese Sentences

Here are a few examples of how でも is used in Japanese sentences:

  • 私は日本語が好きです。でも、漢字が難しいです。 (Watashi wa nihongo ga suki desu. Demo, kanji ga muzukashii desu.) – I like Japanese, but kanji is difficult.
  • 今日は晴れです。でも、風がとても強いです。 (Kyou wa hare desu. Demo, kaze ga totemo tsuyoi desu.) – It is sunny today, but the wind is very strong.
  • 私は日本に行きたいです。でも、お金がありません。 (Watashi wa nihon ni ikitai desu. Demo, okane ga arimasen.) – I want to go to Japan, but I don’t have money.

Conclusion

でも is a very common Japanese word that can be used to express a variety of different meanings. By following the tips in this article, you can learn how to use でも correctly and confidently in your Japanese conversations and writing.

Try it yourself! We’ve compiled 30 other N5 grammar points, so check them out here to prepare the upcoming test!

Enjoyed our previous blog on 20 JLPT N2 Grammars?

In this blog, we share with you 20 MORE that will help you with your JLPT N2 revision! Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Here is the list of the 20 JLPT N2 grammar points:

jlpt n2 grammar point からすると
からすると

Grammar Point 1: からすると Karasuruto

This grammar point is used to infer something based on another. It can be used with nouns only. 

jlpt n2 grammar point といえば
といえば

Grammar Point 2: といえば Toieba

This grammar point means ‘Speaking of…’ and is used when talking about a certain topic. It can be used with nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point にもかかわらず
にもかかわらず

Grammar Point 3: にもかかわらず Ni mo kakawarazu

This grammar point means ‘although’, ‘in spite of’, ‘nevertheless’ or ‘although. It can be used by combining with verbs, い-adjectives, な-adjectives, and nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point もしない
もしない

Grammar Point 4: もしない Moshinai

This grammar point means ‘without even doing’ something. It is used with verbs in Group 1, 2 and 3. Remember to remove the ます or します when combining with the verb! 

jlpt n2 grammar point をめぐって
をめぐって

Grammar Point 5: をめぐって O megutte

This grammar point means ‘concerning’ or ‘in regard to’, and is used when referring to something. It is used by combining with either nouns or verbs. 

jlpt n2 grammar point っこない
っこない

Grammar Point 6: っこない Kkonai

This grammar point means ‘no chance of’ or ‘impossible’. It is used with verbs with a ます-stem. Be sure to remove the ます when combining with the verb! 

jlpt n2 grammar point というものは
というものは

Grammar Point 7: というものは Toiumono wa

This grammar point is used to express the universal behavior on a certain topic. It is usually used to talk about a general idea or objective fact. It can be used by combining with nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point はさておき
はさておき

Grammar Point 8: はさておき Wa sateoki

This grammar point is used to ‘set aside’ something. It can be used by combining with nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point はもとより
はもとより

Grammar Point 9: はもとより Wa motoyori

This grammar point means ‘let alone’ or ‘also’. It can be used by placing it in between 2 nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point 以上
以上

Grammar Point 10: 以上 Ijou

This grammar point means ‘because’ or ‘now that’. It is used by combining either with a verb or noun. When added to a noun, be sure to include である before 以上, so it becomes (Noun)である以上. 

jlpt n2 grammar point 折に
折に

Grammar Point 11: 折に Orini

This grammar point means ‘when’ or ‘at the time’. It can be used by combining with casual verbs or nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point からして
からして

Grammar Point 12: からして Karashite

This grammar point expresses when you are inferring something ‘judging from’ or ‘based on’ something. It can be used by combining with nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point 次第
次第

Grammar Point 13: 次第 Shidai

This grammar point means ‘as soon as possible’ and can be combined with verbs with a ます-stem. Be sure to remove the ます at the back! 

jlpt n2 grammar point ずにはいられない
ずにはいられない

Grammar Point 14: ずにはいられない Zuni wa irarenai

This grammar point means ‘can’t help but’. It is used by combining with verbs with a ない-stem. When adding this grammar point to the verb, be sure to remove the ない at the back! 

jlpt n2 grammar point 限り
限り

Grammar Point 15: 限り Kagiri

This grammar point means ‘as long as‘. It can be used by combining it with either a verb or a noun. When added to a noun, be sure to include である or でない before 限り, so it becomes (Noun)である/でない限り. 

jlpt n2 grammar point ないものか
ないものか

Grammar Point 16: ないものか Naimonoka

This grammar point means ‘Can’t we…?’ or ‘Can’t I…?’ and is a particle used in questions. It can be used by combining with verbs with a ない-stem. 

jlpt n2 grammar point に先立って
に先立って

Grammar Point 17: に先立って Ni sakidatte

This grammar point is used when you do something before another, or when something happens before another. It can be used by combining it with either nouns or verbs. 

jlpt n2 grammar point はともかく
はともかく

Grammar Point 18: はともかく Wa tomokaku

This grammar point means ‘whether or not’ or ‘nevermind’, and can be combined with nouns. 

jlpt n2 grammar point あまり
あまり

Grammar Point 19: あまり Amari

This grammar point means ‘so much… that’. It can be used by combining with either verbs or nouns. When added to a noun, be sure to include の after the noun, so it becomes (Noun)のあまり. 

jlpt n2 grammar point 得ない
得ない

Grammar Point 20: 得ない Enai

This grammar point expresses something that is impossible to be done. It is used by combining with verbs with a ます-stem. Be sure to remove the ます at the back when adding this grammar point to the verb!

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Are you preparing for test and learning the JLPT N2 grammars now? This article explains to you 20 of the must-know grammar points for JLPT N2! From the meaning to sentence structures and sentence examples!

All these Grammar points and much more are covered in our Online JLPT N2 Preparation Course!

Without further ado, let’s dive straight in. Here is the list of the 20 must-know grammar points.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~っぽい

Grammar Point 1: っぽい

This grammar point is used to express something that “has a strong tendency of~” or simply put, it means “like” or “ish”. For example, you can add this grammar point at the back of the noun-て form to make them adjective-forms.

こども + っぽい = こどもっぽい (Childish)

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~がち

Grammar Point 2: がち

がち is usually used for something that is negative or to express a tendency to do something. For example, 疲れがち which means tend to be tired easily as compared to 疲れ which just means tired.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~てならない

Grammar Point 3: ていられない

If you have no time to do something or do not find the activity time-worthy, you may use this grammar point. This grammar point means you “can’t afford” or “can’t” do something.

For example, のんびりしてはいられない means I can’t afford to slack off. You add the noun-て form in front of the grammar point.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~てはならない

Grammar Point 4: てはならない

てはならない is more subjective. It means must not, cannot or should not. You can use this grammar point with a verb-て form and add the grammar at the back of the verb.

For example, 忘れ+てはならない which means never forget.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ねばならない

Grammar Point 5: ねばならない

This grammar point means you have to do something or there is something that you must do. Add this grammar point to a verb-ない form. When you add in the grammar point, be sure to remove the ない at the back of the verb.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ずにはいられない

Grammar Point 6: ずにはいられない

This grammar point describes naturally irrepressible actions. It means “can’t help but do something” or “have to do something”. This grammar point can only be used in writing.

When spoken, it is changed to 「…ないではいられない」 instead. This grammar point is being added to a verb-ない form. When placing the grammar point, remove the ない at the back of the verb.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ないではいられない

Grammar Point 7: ないではいられない

This grammar point means you “can’t help it but feel” or you “can’t help but do”. You need to place this grammar point with a verb-ない form. You do not need to take out the ない when placing the grammar point at the back.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ないことはない

Grammar Point 8: ないこともない

This means you “can do something”, or “something is not impossible to do”. Another way to put it is “it isn’t the case that ~ not ~”.

For example, I can eat natto but I don’t like it very much. You can eat natto, but if given over another kind of food, you would not pick natto because you don’t like it very much.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~しょうがない

Grammar Point 9: しょうがない

You may have heard this used in a sentence before in dramas or animeしょうがない means “there is no other way but…” or “very, extremely”.

Note that しょうがない is a contraction of しようがない which is used in informal spoken conversations.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~てたまらない

Grammar Point 10: てたまらない

This grammar point comes from the word たまる which means to endure something. With the ない at the back, the word comes a negative form. This means “cannot endure something”.

Verbs and い adjectives would use the てたまらない while な adjectives would use でたまらない

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20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~は抜きにして

Grammar Point 11: は抜きにして

This grammar point is used in both positive and negative situations. For positive situations, rather than は抜きにして, we use 抜きに。As for negative situations, we use 抜きで

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~てばかりはいられない

Grammar Point 12: てばかりはいられない

Based on the word ばかり, we change it into a て form to express that one cannot do something repeatedly. The grammar point can be written in two ways; てばかりはいられない and てばかりもいられない

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~まだしも

Grammar Point 13:まだしも

This grammar point is used when comparing with different opinions and choosing a better opinion. For example, if we say [A]まだしも, [B], it means [A] is better or more preferred than [B]. Another way we can look at it is [B] is disliked over [A]

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ものの

Grammar Point 14: ものの

This grammar point is normally used to express a contradiction. For example, [A]ものの + [B]  means you want to go to [A] but you have something on [B].

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ものだから

Grammar Point 15: ものだから

ものだから is used when saying the reason is … for something which is unavoidable. For example, “the dog ate my homework, therefore (ものだから), I can’t turn in my homework.”

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ものなら

Grammar Point 16: ものなら

This is used when saying if [A] is possible, then [B]. Simply put, it is either impossible or very unlikely to be done. For example, (if I can go, then..) or (if I can return this, then…).

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~気味

Grammar Point 17: 気味

気味 means something looks like or seems to be in a certain way.

For example, 疲れ気味 which means seems tired. You can add the grammar point with any noun or verb ます form. When you add 気味 with a verb ます form, be sure to take out ます before adding in.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~もの

Grammar Point 18: もの

This is used when you want to explain a reason for something. However, this expression is usually used most by girls and children. You add the reason with もの when you want to justify what you said.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~でならない

Grammar Point 19: でならない

This is used to describe an emotion that is beyond control or used to describe “extremely”. でならない is mostly used for emotions, wishes, and feelings.

The grammar point is usually used in writing and is an old way used in spoken language.

20 Must Know Grammar Points for the JLPT N2、image, photo, picture, illustration
~ないこともない

Grammar Point 20: ないことはない

This grammar point is used when something is not impossible to do. Another meaning would be “it isn’t the case that.. not..”.

For example, in the above example, “it’s not that I can’t drive, I just don’t do it very often”. You can do it, but you just do not do it often.

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Just like that, with our JLPT N2 Grammar list, you can pass your test with consistent effort and hard work!😁 頑張ってください!

Are You Serious About Passing the JLPT N2? We have Part 2 for you!

If you are, learn how to pass the JLPT N2 with our JLPT N2 Online Prep Course!

Check out our other JLPT blogs to learn more!

Start taking Japanese lessons and pass JLPT N2 exam!

Learning Japanese can feel overwhelming at first, but mastering basic greetings and essential vocabulary is a great way to start. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, interacting with Japanese speakers, or just curious about the language, these words and phrases will help you build a solid foundation.

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Mastering Basic Japanese Greetings and Essential Words

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Greetings in Japan infographic

Basic Japanese Words for Greetings

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
おはようございますOhayou gozaimasuGood morning (formal)
こんにちはKonnichiwaHello/ good afternoon
こんばんはKonbanwaGood evening
おやすみなさいOyasuminasaiGoodnight (formal)
ありがとうございますArigatou gozaimasuThank you
すみませんSumimasenExcuse me/ sorry
ごめんなさいGomennasaiSorry (formal)
はいHaiYes
いいえIieNo

Cultural Tip: In Japan, bowing while saying greetings is a common practice and shows respect. Try incorporating a slight bow when greeting people.

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - People in Japan infographic

Talking About Family in Japanese

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
わたしWatashiI/me
あなたAnataYou
お母さんおかあさん OkaasanMother
お父さんおとうさん OtousanFather
お爺さんおじいさん OjiisanGrandfather
お婆さんおばあさん ObaasanGrandmother
おじさんOjisanUncle
おばさんObasanAunt
お兄さんおにいさん OniisanOlder brother
お姉さんおねえさん OneesanOlder sister
おとうと OtoutoYounger brother
いもうと ImoutoYounger sister

Did you know? The use of honorifics like “-san” adds politeness and respect to family terms.

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Numbers

Counting in Japanese: Numbers 1-10

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
いち IchiOne
に NiTwo
さん SanThree
し/よん Shi/yonFour
ご GoFive
ろく RokuSix
しち/なな Shichi/nanaSeven
はち HachiEight
きゅう KyuuNine
じゅう JuuTen

Tip: “Shi” (four) is sometimes avoided because it sounds like the word for “death” in Japanese.

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Months

Months of the Year in Japanese

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
一月いちがつ IchigatsuJanuary
二月にがつ NigatsuFebruary
三月さんがつ SangatsuMarch
四月しがつ ShigatsuApril
五月ごがつ GogatsuMay
六月ろくがつ RokugatsuJune
七月しちがつ ShichigatsuJuly
八月はちがつ HachigatsuAugust
九月くがつ KugatsuSeptember
十月じゅうがつ JuugatsuOctober
十一月じゅういちがつ JuuichigatsuNovember
十二月じゅうにがつ JuunigatsuDecember
Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Days of the Week

Days of the Week & Times of the Day in Japanese

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
月曜日げつようび GetsuyoubiMonday
火曜日かようび KayoubiTuesday
水曜日すいようび SuiyoubiWednesday
木曜日もくようび MokuyoubiThursday
金曜日きんようび KinyoubiFriday
土曜日どようび DoyoubiSaturday
日曜日にちようび NichiyoubiSunday
昨日きのう KinouYesterday
今日きょう KyouToday
明日あした AshitaTomorrow
あさ AsaMorning
ひる HiruNoon
夕方ゆうがた YuugataEvening
よる YoruNight

Quick Fact: The days of the week are named after natural elements such as the moon (Getsu) and fire (Ka).

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Adjectives

Must-Know Japanese Adjectives

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
楽しいたのしい TanoshiiHappy
悲しいかなしい KanashiiSad
高いたかい TakaiHigh/expensive
低いひくい HikuiLow
安いやすい YasuiCheap
早いはやい HayaiFast/early
遅いおそい  OsoiSlow
忙しいいそがしい IsogashiiBusy
美味しいおいしい OishiiDelicious
不味いまずい MazuiAwful
甘いあまい AmaiSweet
塩っぱいしょっぱい ShoppaiSalty
酸っぱいすっぱい SuppaiSour
苦いにがい NigaiBitter
辛いからい KaraiHot/ spicy
熱いあつい AtsuiHot
暖かいあたたかい AtatakaiWarm
冷たいつめたい TsumetaiCold
明るいあかるい AkaruiBright
暗いくらい KuraiDark

Try This: Describe your meal using these adjectives next time you eat Japanese food!

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Verbs

Common Japanese Verbs for Daily Use

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
するSuruTo do
見るみる MiruTo see
聞くきく KikuTo listen
話すはなす HanasuTo talk/speak
言ういう IuTo say
書くかく KakuTo write
食べるたべる TaberuTo eat
飲むのむ NomuTo drink
歩くあるく ArukuTo walk
走るはしる HashiruTo run
座るすわる SuwaruTo sit
立つたつ TatsuTo stand

Practice Tip: Create sentences combining verbs with nouns, like “ごはんを食べる” (Gohan o taberu – I eat rice).

Top 100 Basic Japanese Words - Food

Food Japanese Vocabulary

JapanesePronunciationMeaning
食べ物たべもの TabemonoFood
飲み物のみもの NomimonoDrinks
ご飯ごはん GohanRice/meal
 みず MizuWater/cold water
お湯おゆ OyuHot water
にく NikuMeat
野菜やさい YasaiVegetable
さかな SakanaFish
ラーメンRa-menRamen
寿司すし SushiSushi
おにぎりOnigiriOnigiri

For the next step after learning these basic Japanese words, equip yourself with basic Japanese grammar.

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Learn Japanese – What is 大丈夫 (Daijobu / Daijoubu)?

大丈夫 (daijoubu) is a common phrase used in everyday conversations. The word is similar to the words “All right,” “Fine,” or “Okay” in English – but in addition to this, there are many ways that you can use it in Japanese. This article will cover 20 ways to use 大丈夫 (daijoubu) properly.

The Detailed Definition of Daijoubu

As previously mentioned, 大丈夫 (daijoubu) means “okay” or “alright.” To break apart, this phrase derives from the word 大 (dai), which means big, and 丈夫 (jobu), which describes something sturdy, resilient, and durable. To break apart the word 丈夫 (jobu) even more, 丈 is stature, and 夫 is man or husband. Combined with all these literal meanings, it meant big, strong man! It was thought that the phrase was used to refer to a strong man who traditionally provides safety and stability, and it slowly evolved into the phrase we use almost every day! 

20 Examples of using Daijoubu

If you injure yourself – you can let people know that you are fine by exclaiming

  • 大丈夫です。Daijobu desu – I’m okay! – Polite/ Formal
  • 大丈夫。 Daijobu – I’m okay! – Casual / Informal

You can ask someone else if they are alright after a fall.

  • 大丈夫ですか? Daijobu desu ka? – Are you alright?

You can confirm appointments by asking if a specific time is “okay.”

  • 月曜日は大丈夫ですGetsuyoubi wa daijobu desu ka? – Is Monday okay?

You can ask if someone is alright after being unwell / having something happen to them.

  • もう大丈夫ですか? Mou daijobu desu ka? – Are you alright now?

You can ask what time you can call someone.

  • あなたに何時から電話しても大丈夫ですか?Anata ni nan ji kara denwa shi temo daijobu desu ka? – What time is okay to call you?

You can give a range of time that it would be okay to do something (such as call or have a meeting).

  • 私は18時から20時くらいまでなら大丈夫です。Watashi wa jyuu hachi ji kara ni jyuu kurai made nara daijoubu desu. – Any time from 6 – 8 PM is okay for me!

You can ask if it is okay to do something specific – like delete files off of a computer.

  • これらのファイルを消しても大丈夫ですか?Korera no fairu o keshite mo daijobu desu ka? – Is it okay to delete these files?

You can express that you think something should be alright.

  • たぶん大丈夫だ。Tabun daijobu da. – It should be alright.

You can reassure someone if they apologize to you for bumping in to you on the train.

  • Person A – すみません! – Sumimasen Sorry!
  • Person B – 大丈夫ですよ。Daijobu desu yo – It’s fine!

You can ask someone if eating a certain food would be okay to eat.

  • ピザで大丈夫?Pi za de daijobu? – Is Pizza okay?
daijoubu
Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

You can use it to reassure someone that they will be fine in the future.

(E.g., if they have a test or an exam and are worried about it.)

  • あなたはきっと大丈夫。Anata wa kitto daijōbu. – You will be fine.

You can use it to state your surety / how convinced you are that something will happen.

  • 大丈夫彼は来ますよ。daijobu kare wa kimasu yo. – He will come – you can count on it.

You can ask if something is safe / okay to use / do.

  • この水は大丈夫かね。Kono mizu wa daijobu ka ne. – Is this water safe to drink?

You can promise that something will be okay / give your word that you can be depended upon.

  • 大丈夫請け合います。Daijobu uke aimasu – It will be okay – I guarantee you

You can express that something is fine with you personally.

  • 私は大丈夫です。Watashi wa daijoubu desu – It’s alright with me. / I am okay with it.

You can ask if someone is feeling okay.

  • 気分は大丈夫ですか。Kibun wa daijobu desu ka? – Are you feeling okay?

You can ask if a trait / characteristic of something is okay.

  • このサイズで大丈夫でしょうかKono saizu de daijoubu deshou ka? – Is the size okay?

You can express that there’s no need to do something.

  • 送ってくれなくて大丈夫です。Okutte kurenakute daijobu desu. – There’s no need to send it.

You can ask if something was okay in the past. I.E. Weather

  • 天気は大丈夫だった?Tenki wa daijoubu datta? – Was the weather okay?

You can ask someone for additional confirmation that something is alright

(E.g.,  if they are sure they are alright with something.)

  • これで大丈夫でしょうか。Kore de daijobu deshouka? – Are you sure you are okay with this?

Phrases Similar To Daijoubu

While daijoubu is a versatile phrase, other phrases commonly used in Japan convey similar meanings.

元気です。 Genki desu – I’m fine/healthy.

  • 元気ですか。Genki desu ka? – Are you okay?

問題ない。 Mondai nai – No problem.

  • それで問題ないですか。Sore de mondai nai desu ka? – Is that okay?

安全です。Anzen desu -It’s safe.

  • ここは安全ですか。Koko wa anzen desu ka? – Is this place safe?

大丈夫だと思います。Daijōbu da to omoimasu – I think it’s okay.

  • このようにして大丈夫だと思います。Kono yō ni shite daijōbu da to omoimasu. – I think it’s okay to do it this way.)

結構です。Kekkō desu-It’s enough/I’m okay.

  • もう結構です。Mō kekkō desu. – That’s enough.

Let’s Watch Japanese learning video to recap on what we have learned today!

Want to know more about some commonly used phrases in Japan? Read these blogs down below:

Once you’ve learned the meaning of Daijoubu, we recommend practicing them with immersive Japanese listening conversations. Our Japanese podcasts are a great way to do this. The NHK World Japan Audio Shows also offer excellent listening practice for learners at any level.

FAQ

What does "daijobu" mean?

Daijobu is a versatile Japanese phrase that can be translated to “okay,” “all right,” or “fine.” However, its meaning can vary depending on the context.

How is "daijobu" used?

Daijobu can be used in a variety of situations:

  • Checking on someone: “Daijobu desu ka?” (Are you okay?)
  • Reassuring someone: “Daijobu, dekimasu.” (It’s okay, I can do it.)
  • Expressing relief: “Ah, daijobu da.” (Ah, that’s a relief.)
  • Politely declining: “Iie, daijobu desu.” (No, thank you, I’m okay.)
  • Giving permission: “Hai, daijobu desu.” (Yes, that’s okay.)

Are there any cultural nuances to consider when using "daijobu"?

Yes, there are cultural nuances to consider:

  • Avoiding conflict: Japanese culture values harmony and avoiding conflict. Daijobu can be used to maintain this harmony, even if you’re not entirely okay with it.

Indirect communication: Japanese communication often relies on indirectness. Daijobu can be used to avoid confrontation or negative emotions.

How can I practice using "daijobu"?

To practice using daijobu, try incorporating it into your daily conversations. Here are some tips:

  • Listen to Japanese media: How native speakers use daijobu in different contexts.
  • Practice with a language partner: Role-play different scenarios where you can use daijobu.

Use language learning apps: Many language learning apps offer exercises and quizzes to help you practice vocabulary and grammar, including daijobu.

Is daijoubu a formal or informal phrase?

The word daijoubu is informal, but you can add desu, in the end, to make it “dajoubudesu” to make the word formal.

Can I use daijoubu to say I’m fine?

Yes, you can definitely do so. But to say it formally, remember to add desu at the end.

What is the difference between daijoubu and genki?

Daijoubu means “I’m fine”, reassuring someone that they are okay, but genki usually means I’m healthy or energetic enough to inform them about their physical and emotional state.

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日本語はこちら

In this article, we will cover:

What does こんにちは (Konnichiwa) mean?
When do I use おはよう (Ohayou) then?
What about こんばんは (Konbanwa)?

What does こんにちは (Konnichiwa) mean in Japanese?

Konnichiwa 「こんにちは」 is one of the first words you learn in Japanese.  Often times, on social media posts, you may see it spelled as 「こんにちわ」.  However, as you may have learned in your studies, the correct spelling is actually 「こんにちは」.

「こんにちは」is usually written in hiragana, but if you write it in kanji, it’s「今日は」, which can also be read as 「きょうは〜, kyo wa〜」 .  This directly translates to “today is ~ ”.  Originally, people often greeted each other with 「今日は天気が良いですね、kyou wa tenki ga ii desune- Today, the weather is nice.」or「今日は暑いですね、kyou wa atsui desune- Today, it is hot.」.  Over time, people began to shorten their greetings by cutting off the latter portions, eventually resulting in 「こんにちは, konnichiwa」.

What Part of Speech is Konnichiwa?

At times, people ask me, “What part of speech is 「こんにちは, konnichiwa- good day」?  Is it a noun? Greetings, including 「おはよう,ohayo- good morning」,「こんにちは, konnichiwa- good day, 」, and「こんばんは, konbanwa- good evening」are not nouns, but interjection s. Interjections are words which we use when our hearts are stirred.

For example, the 「わぁー。」in「わぁー。きれいだなぁ。Waa-, kireidanaa- Waa, it’s so beautiful!」, and the 「あっ。」in「あっ。宿題を忘れた。 Aa, shukudai o wasureta- Aa, I forgot my homework!」are interjections. Therefore, greetings are words which encompass the stirring of our hearts when we meet someone, and the feeling of wanting to communicate with the people we meet.

Other Greetings Besides Konnichiwa

When do I use おはよう (Ohayou) then?

Well then, everyone, at what time do you change your greeting from 「おはよう, ohayo- good morning」to「こんにちは, konnichiwa- good day」? This is quite a difficult question! There is actually no fixed rule.  The television and radio station NHK, which uses the most correct Japanese in Japan, states that “The greeting「おはよう,ohayo, good morning」is generally acceptable until 9:00 am.

However, you should be cautious when using it after 9:00 am.” In addition, a famous Tokyo hotel states that “For guests, we use 「おはようございます, ohayogozaimasu- good morning (polite)」until around 10:30 am, and after that we use 「いらっしゃいませ, irasshaimase- welcome」.

What about こんばんは (Konbanwa)?

konbanwa good evening in japanese

How about the transition from 「こんにちは, konnichiwa- good day」to「こんばんは, konbanwa- good afternoon」? This is actually even more difficult!
NHK states that “「こんばんは,konbanwa- good afternoon」is generally used after the sun has gone down and it gets pretty dark. It is better not to use it when the sun is still out.” In short, when you transition greeting is dependent on the season. For me, I think in the summer I switch greetings around 7:00 pm, and in the winter around 5:30 pm.

Japanese greetings allow you to communicate with the people you meet, while also keeping the seasons and time in mind. However, do you ever think that the greetings used by some store clerks in Japan are a little too obnoxious? I think those type of greetings might just be the requirements of the store manual and perhaps aren’t the most sincere.

After having learned all of these, why not try putting these to use by greeting people over the phone? Or, if you have a friend that you haven’t met in awhile, why not try using “Hisashiburi” with them!

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FAQ

What does "Konnichiwa" mean in English?

“Konnichiwa” is a common Japanese greeting that translates to “Hello.” However, the most appropriate English equivalent can vary depending on the time of day.

When do you use "Konnichiwa"?

“Konnichiwa” is a versatile greeting used in various situations. It’s a polite way to greet someone, especially when meeting someone for the first time or addressing someone of higher status. While it can be used at any time of day, it’s more commonly used as a general greeting.

What's the difference between "Ohayō" and "Konnichiwa"?

“Ohayō” means “Good morning” and is primarily used in the morning. “Konnichiwa” is a more general greeting, but “Ohayō” is considered more appropriate in the morning.

What's the difference between "Konbanwa" and "Konnichiwa"?

“Konbanwa” means “Good evening” and is primarily used in the evening. “Konnichiwa” is a more general greeting, but “Konbanwa” is more appropriate in the evening.

日本語を勉強している人、あるいは日本に住んでいる人なら、そう、みたい、らしい、っぽい、で終わる言葉を耳にすることでしょう。その中でも、らしい、みたい、っぽいは似たような意味を持つため、混乱する学生も多かったと思います。例えば、あなたが職場でお弁当を開けたとき、同僚が「おいしそう」と言う。それは、どういう意味なのでしょうか?

これらの接尾辞は全体として、ものごとがどのように見えるかを表します。「seems like」「looks like」という表現だと思えばいいです。これらの接尾辞はすべて、あなたが読んだり聞いたり言われたりしたことに基づいて判断したことを表しますが、そう、みたい、らしい、っぽいには、それぞれ異なるニュアンスや区別があります。 

日本語の初級学習者であれば、「そう」は最初に習うフレーズかもしれません。このフレーズは、たとえ日本語があまりわからなくても、多くの場面で使えるフレーズのひとつです(実際、私たちの「便利な日本語フレーズ」のリストにも入っています)。当然、私たちのサバイバル・ジャパニーズ・リストのトップは、オリジナルの形容詞「美味しい」でしょう。

この記事で取り上げた日本語の文法事項は、話し手の確信の度合いに応じて使い分けられます。どれを使うかは、話し手の確信度や情報量によって決まるのです。

次に、「~のようです」の正しい日本語の使い方を詳しく見ていきましょう!

日本語で「~のように見える」はどう言う?

会話相手の発言を肯定するときに使う「そうですね」「わかりました」とは、間違えないようにしてくださいね。ここでは、見た目から判断する「そうです」の意味です。。

最も一般的な「そう」の例として、「おいしそう!」。「そう」を使うときは、見た目の状況を説明したり、推測したりします。

「おいしそう」の例を見てみましょう。目の前にあるラーメンを見て、あなたは自動的に「これはどうか」という結論を出します。たいていの場合、この結論は見た目からものです。

例:

このオレンジはとても美味しそうです。
Kono orenji wa totemo oishisou desu
This orange looks really delicious

この本、面白そうです。
Kono hon, omoshirosou desu
This book looks interesting. 

田中さんは先週風邪を引いていましたが、今日は元気そうです。
Tanaka san wa sennshuu kaze o hiite imashita ga, kyou wa genkisou desu
Ms Tanaka had a cold last week, but she looks fine today. 

今週は仕事が沢山ありましたがもうすぐ終わりそうです
Konshuu wa shigoto takusan arimashita ga mousugu owarisou desu
I had a lot of work this week, but it looks like it’s almost over. 

Grammar Pattern for Sou (そう) Form

い adjectivesDrop the い,  add そう美味しそう
な adjectivesAdd sou right after the adjective元気そう
VerbsDrop the ます from the ます form, add そう終わりますそう

To make the negative form of this Japanese grammar point, use なさそう.

い adjectivesDrop the い,  add くなさそう美味しくなさそう
な adjectivesAdd なさそう元気なさそう

「そう聞きました」、伝聞の意味を日本語で言う

これは前述の「そう」と同じことばですが、使い方は異なり、実は別の文法事項です。この「そう」は、話し手が聞いたこと、つまり伝聞を表現するときに使います。「私はそう聞いた。」 と訳すことができます。

この「そう」を使うと、どこかで読んだかもしれない、別の情報源からのメッセージも伝えることができます。

どちらの場合も(小耳に挟んだことや読んだことについて話すときに使う)、伝える情報に自分の意見は含まれません。

例えば、あなたの親友がある人気レストランについて、そこの料理は美味しいと力説したとします。あなたの友人は次のように言ったでしょう:

新しいレストランは美味しかったよ!
Atarashii resutoran wa oishikatta yo!
The new restaurant is delicious!

後日、あなたは友人仲間を誘ってその料理を食べに来た。あなたは友人がこの店を気に入ったと言った。あなたは言うだろう:

新しいレストランは美味しいそうです。(友達から聞きました。)
Atarashii resutoran wa oishii sou desu (tomodachi kara kikimashita)
I heard that the new restaurant is good. A friend told me about it.  

テレビなど、どこかで見た情報を伝えるのにも使える。

朝、天気予報で見ましたが、今日は雨が降るそうです。
Asa, tenki yohou de mimashita ga, kyou wa ame ga furusou desu.
I saw on the weather report this morning that it’s supposed to rain today.

形容詞と動詞をそう形に変える方法

この機能を持つ「そう」については、平叙文の時制の最後に「そう」をつけるだけです。また、形容詞については、い形容詞は辞書形そのまま、な形容詞は「な」をとって、「だ」をつけます。

い adjectives美味しいそう (oishiisou)(Heard that) it’s delicious
な adjectives綺麗だそう (kirei da sou)(Heard that) it’s pretty
Verbs終わるそう (owarusou)
終わらないそう (owaranaisou)
(Heard that) it is over
(Heard that) it is not over. 

最初の(そう)と接続の形が微妙に違うことが重要です。 わずかな違いで意味が大きく変わってしまうので、十分注意してください。

美味しそう.
Oishisou.
It looks delicious! 

美味しいそう
Oishiisou
I hear it’s delicious.

雨が降りそう
Ame ga furisou.
It looks like it’s about to rain

雨が降るそう.
Ame ga furu sou.
I heard that it’s supposed to rain. 

Japanese Grammar: How To Use rashii, mitai and poi?
Japanese Grammar: How To Use rashii, mitai and poi?

「らしい」の使い方: 似ている

「らしい」は、「そう見える」という意味でも使われますが、「推測」との違いは、話し手が入手可能な情報に基づいて、それに対する確信の度合いです。らしいは常に曖昧な情報源に基づいているため、発言の確実性や信憑性が低くなります。一方、前に取り上げた「そう」は、自分の観察または何らかの情報手段を通して、見たり聞いたりしたことを表現するのに使われます。

例えば、あなたの彼女が、あるレストランの営業日情報を、だれか第三者に伝えたかったとします。そして、その情報が、あなたから聞いたものである場合:

今日、お店は休みらしいよ
Kyou, omise wa yasumi rashiiyo.
It looks like the restaurant is closed today. 

情報が確かな場合は「そう」を使い、確かでない場合は「らしい」を使う。聞いた情報に確信がある場合は「そう」を使う。そうでないときは「らしい」を使う。これがこの2つの違いです。

確実性が低いため、「らしい」を使うと噂話や憶測のニュアンスになることが多いです。

例えば、同僚の田中さんが上司に辞表を渡しているのを自分の目で見たとき、あなたは「田中さんは仕事を辞めるのだろう」という趣旨のことを言うでしょう:

山田さんは会社を辞めそうだよ。
Tanaka-san wa kaisha o yame sou da yo.
It looks like Tanaka-san is going to quit his job.

シナリオを少し変えます。あなたは田中を見かけたことはないが、彼についての噂を耳にしています。すべて伝聞情報であるため、実際に確認することはできないですが、それでもあなたは同僚とこの件について話し合いたいと思っています。

山田さんは会社を辞めるらしいよ。
Shachou wa kaisha o yameru rashii yo.
I heard that the manager was going to quit his job (but I am not certain of it). 

形容詞、動詞、名詞をみたいな形に変換する方法

い adjectivesAdd らしい美味しいみたい
Oishiimitai
な adjectivesDrop the な, add らしい元気みたい
Genkimitai
VerbsAdd らしい to the plain form終わるみたい
Owarumitai
NounsAdd らしい豚みたい
Butamitai

もうひとつのよく使われる 「らしい 」は、予想できることや、典型的なパターン、定義に合うものとして確認することです。

この意味では、日本語では性別と一緒に使われることが多いです。女らしくない、男らしくない、男らしくない、男らしくない。逆に、「女らしくない、男らしくない」とも言います。

接尾辞の「〜らしさ」は、その特徴をよく表していることを表します。

男らしい男が好きだ。
Otokorashiiotoko ga suki da.
I like a manly man.

今日は冬らしい寒い日です。
Kyou wa samurashii samui hi desu.
Today is a very cold and winter-like day.

みたいの使い方:そのように見える、思われる

「みたい」は、その確からしさの度合いから、目で見て何かを判断し、現在の状態を表現するときに使います。では「そう」と、どう違うのでしょうか。

そのように思われることを表現するために「そう」を使い、現在の状態に対する問題を見たり読んだりすることで、将来の可能性について意見を述べることができます。

雨が降りそうだという予測のために「そう」を使う例文を先に挙げました。その状況の結果として「みたい」を使うとこのように言えます:

雨が降ったみたいだね。
Ame ga futta mitai da ne.
It sems like it rained (just now). 

それは確信の問題でもあります。例えば、夕食のレストランを調べているとします。グーグルは、あなたが興味を持っているレストランの1つが閉店しているかもしれないと言う。しかし、あなたは公式ページを見ることができないし、レストランの近くにもいない。
今日はお休みのようです:「 休みみたいだよ。」

レストランに電話をして、「はい、確かに定休日です」と確認すれば、より詳細な情報を得ることができ、ディナーデートの相手に確信を持って、こう言うことができます。「休みだそうだよ」

みたいな感じも広く使われます。日本の夏祭りで踊っている姿を「夢みたい」ということもできます。他にも「鶏肉みたいだけど、豚肉かもしれない」「鶏肉みたいだけど豚肉かも」など。

っぽいの使い方: -っぽい, ちょっとだけ(そう思う)

その質について話すときに使います。「っぽい」には主に3つの意味があります。

1. どんなものであるかを言う。

これは英語の-ishや-lyに似ていると考えてください。食べ物が油っぽいとか、クリームスープが水っぽいとか。肯定的な意味では使われません。名詞や形容詞と一緒に使われます。安っぽい、安っぽく見える…など。

2. 期待とは正反対のことを言う。

ある人の振る舞いを、子どもっぽいと言うことがあります。ここで言っている人は実際には子どもではありません。もし実際に彼らが子どもであり、子供のように振る舞っている、あるいはそうすべきであると言いたいのであれば、「子供らしい」と言います。名詞と一緒に使います。もし実際に子供であれば、逆に「(あの子は)大人っぽい」つまり大人のように振る舞う、と言うことができます。

同じように、「女っぽい」と言う場合、その表現の対象は「男の人」になります。そこでは、もっと「男らしい manly」が期待されているのです。日本語では、この文法は、特定の性別に対する期待について話すときによく使われます。

3. 誰かがやりそうなこと、よくやることを表現する。

よく使われる動詞は 忘れる と 怒る です。これは性格を表す動詞によく使われます:忘れっぽい、怒りっぽい(どちらも「ます形」につく)

最後になりますが、「〜っぽい」は英語で「like」と訳されることが多いです。ネガティブな意味で使います。以下の例は、そのニュアンスをより明確に理解するのに役立つかと思います:

  • 子供こどもっぽい: speaking of an adult, saying he is childish.
  • ねつっぽい: speaking about yourself, being feverish.
  • わすれっぽい: having a tendency to forget

まとめ

日本語を読み、日本語を練習すればするほど、ニュアンスを区別できるようになることを忘れないでください。「そう、みたい、らしい、ようだ、っぽい」は同じ系列の日本語文法です。似ているところもあるが、違うところもあります。これらはすべて、あるものがどのように見えるかを、確度の違いや肯定的・否定的なニュアンスで表現するために使われます。日本語を使えば、時間の経過とともに主な違いがはっきりしてくるはずです。とはいえ、これらの文法項目は混乱しやすいので、時々見直してみてください。

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Updated on January 2023 by Kerry Furukawa.

This will be a thorough guide on how to apply for the JLPT online. It’s almost that time of the year again when most of us are getting all ready to sign up for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, otherwise known as the JLPT. With varying difficulty levels from N5 to N1 (with N1 being the most difficult), it is relatively important to start deciding on which level to take on the test date before applying for the JLPT online. With that being said, let’s get on with some of the details related to the test!

Test Dates

First things first, let’s go through the dates on which the tests are being held so you can mark them down on the calendar. Throughout the span of one year, there are typically JLPT tests being held biannually. These tests are usually held once in July and once in December.

  • First JLPT Test in 2023: July 2, 2023
  • Second JLPT Test in 2023: December 3, 2023

Registration Dates for 2023 July JLPT

Registration through the MyJLPT page is not yet open for the July 2023 JLPT. 

Registration Dates for 2023 December JLPT

Registration through the MyJLPT page is not yet open for the December 2023 JLPT. 

Test Location

Moving on, let’s see the various locations in which you can take the JLPT. You have two option: take the test locally in Japan or in an educational institute overseas. For the full and comprehensive list of overseas institutes which conduct JLPT, head on down to the link over here to check if it is an approved institute.

As the location in which you take the JLPT varies, there may be different procedures, windows or deadlines of which you have to take note. However, the test date still remains to be the same. For more information on how you would go about applying for the JLPT online or otherwise, please click on any one of the links below:

1. Taking the Test in Japan
2. Taking the Test from an Overseas Educational Institute

Test Components

Looking at the test components, JLPT Test Levels N1 to N3 is composed of 3 Components: Reading (60 marks), Vocabulary (60 marks) as well as Listening (60 marks). As for JLPT Test Levels N4 to N5, there are 2 Components: Japanese Language Knowledge (120 marks) and Listening (60 marks).

If you are unsure of how to prepare for JLPT N2 or N3, click on the links and it will lead you to a guide we came up with some time back! Also, check out our Digital JLPT N3 Kanji book and our JLPT N2 Online Prep Course!

However, in order to pass, you need to meet 2 conditions:

  1. Score at least 19 marks for any sections with 60 marks obtainable and 38 marks for sections with 120 marks obtainable.
  2. Meet the overall passing grade for the test at each level. Here’s a list of the passing marks:
JLPT Level
Vocabulary/ Grammar)
ReadingListeningTotal Score
N1191919100
N219191990
N319191995
JLPT LevelVocabulary/ Grammar and ReadingListeningTotal Score
N4381990
N5381980

How to Apply & Application Window

Part 1: Setting up a MyJLPT Account to Apply for the JLPT Online

Step 1: Apply for a MyJLPT Account here

How to apply for the JLPT online
How to apply for the JLPT online

Step 2: Choose your Language

Language

Step 3: Agree to the Terms and Conditions

How to apply for the JLPT online - Terms JLPT

Step 4: Fill up your Details and Confirm

JLPT Form

Step 5: Confirm your Personal Information and check your Email Inbox for a Confirmation Email


Part 2: Registering for a Test Online with your MyJLPT Account

Once you have obtained the myjlpt id you will be asked to complete the online application from your myjlpt page.  The website itself is more friendly to certain web browsers – and the site recommends that you use Microsoft edge.

JLPT Application Guide

Step 1: Log in to your My JLPT account

How to apply for the JLPT online

Step 2: Click on “Examination application

How to apply for the JLPT online

Step 3: Choose your application type

How to apply for the JLPT online

Step 4: Sign the agreement to the privacy policy

How to apply for the JLPT online

Step 5: Choose your level and fill in other details required

How to apply for the JLPT online

Step 6: Choose Payment type

If you are in Japan, you can pay the test fee through several payment methods: credit card, bank transfer or payment via the convenience store. Please confirm the available payment method for countries outside Japan. Generally, credit card is acceptable.

How to apply for the JLPT online
How to apply for the JLPT online - Payment

Step 7: Confirm your information

JLPT application

Final step: The application will be completed after confirmation of your information

Application Window

For local students, the application window can start anywhere from Mid-March (July Test) to Mid-August (December Test). As for overseas students, the application window can be anywhere from March to April (July Test) or August to September (December Test). Check your MyJLPT Account for more details and stay up to date on when you can apply.

Payment of Fees & Window for Payment to be Made

After completing your application, you must complete payment before your registration will be confirmed. Test Fees are approximately 5,500 Yen but may vary based on the location in which you decide to take the test.

If you are in Japan – the payment options for the JLPT range from online with a credit card to cash at a convenience store or post office.  If you are outside of Japan – the payment method will depend on the test location.

From January 17, 2022, a separate fee of 110 yen will be required for a cash payment from Japan Post Bank ATM. For group applications, a fee of 110 yen will be required for each “payment number”.

The test payment window for December is early to late September.

After making payment, you will be set to receive a Test Voucher which you would need to bring into your test venue to confirm and verify your status as a participant of the JLPT you have signed up for. Ensure that this slip of paper is well-kept and not lost as it is very important.

If you sign up for the JLPT 2022 in December, you will likely receive your test voucher sometime in November.

With these, remember to bring in some form of identification together with your Test Voucher. With that, take the test and you’re all good to go.

Release of Results

After all that hard work, just sit back, relax and give yourself a well-deserved break. Until the time comes, enjoy yourself! But until when? Well, the release of results can vary based on whether you’ve taken the test locally or from an overseas educational institute but here are some dates you can stay on the lookout for!

  • Local July Test: Early September
  • Local December Test: Early February
  • Overseas July Test: Early October
  • Overseas December Test: Early March

Note: For Overseas Students, collect your Score Reports, and hopefully a Certificate of Proficiency, at your Local Host Institute. As for Local Students, the Score Reports and Certificates will be mailed to you directly based on the address associated with your MyJLPT Account.

If you have questions about our school or taking JLPT Prep lessons with us, don’t worry. Here’s a link to the FAQ site where you can check to see if it answers any queries you have. With that, we would like to wish you all the best and happy studying! 😀

When is the next JLPT and when can I sign up?

The next JLPT Examination is in: December 4, 2022

Registration is from: August 25 to September 15

Where do I apply?

To apply, you will need a MyJLPT account, which you can sign up for here. Once you have an account, you can sign in with your account and start to register.

When do the JLPT results come out?

Depending on when you take the test, the release of the results can differ. In general, you will get your results 2-3 months after the test. Here is when you should look out for your results depending on when you take the test!

  • Local July Test: Early September
  • Local December Test: Early February
  • Overseas July Test: Early October
  • Overseas December Test: Early March

I have a question about the JLPT that isn't addressed here. What do I do?

If you have any JLPT related inquiries, you can visit the JLPT FAQ site. Your answer should be there.

Start taking Japanese lessons and pass the JLPT exam!