Common Japanese Classroom Phrases and Words for Students

2026 Feb 02

When you become a Japanese language student, you might wonder what common Japanese classroom words and phrases you will hear when you go to school. Of course, you will learn new vocabulary as you go, but in this case, we are talking about phrases you should know so you can understand your teacher’s directions, ask […]

Kids in a class with their teacher and asking questions.

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Common Japanese Classroom Phrases and Words for Students

When you become a Japanese language student, you might wonder what common Japanese classroom words and phrases you will hear when you go to school. Of course, you will learn new vocabulary as you go, but in this case, we are talking about phrases you should know so you can understand your teacher’s directions, ask […]

Kids in a class with their teacher and asking questions.

Itadakimasu (いただきます) and Gochisousama Deshita (ごちそうさまでした): Meaning and Explanation

If you’ve ever dined at a Japanese restaurant, you’ve likely seen people press their palms together and say “Itadakimasu” before eating and “Gochisousama deshita” afterward. In English, these are usually translated as “Let’s eat” and “Thank you for the meal.” But while they function like “saying grace,” the meaning goes much deeper than simple manners. […]

meaning of itadakimasu and gouchisousama

October 2026 Pre-Applications Now Open at Coto Japanese Institute

Coto Japanese Institute, Coto Academy’s new full-time Japanese language school opening in 2026, is now accepting pre-applications for the October 2026 intake. Through this online pre-application, students interested in studying at our school can submit an inquiry and begin their journey with us. From there, we’ll gradually guide applicants through the screening and application process […]

Pre-Application for October 2026 Study in Japan Open Coto Institute

JLPT N4 そんなに (Sonna ni): Saying “That Much” in Japanese

The JLPT N3 phrase そんなに (sonna ni) is a very useful everyday phrase that means, “that much,” “so much,” or “to that extent.” Most often, そんなに appears in negative sentences to downplay or deny the extent of something, making statements sound softer or more polite. When used in positive sentences, it typically conveys surprise or […]

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