Japanese uses a mix of three scripts:
Hiragana（ひらがな）
The core phonetic script for native Japanese words and grammar.
Katakana（カタカナ）
Used for foreign words, names, and sound effects—often seen in menus, signs, or product labels.
Kanji（漢字）
Chinese-origin characters that carry meaning. They take time to learn, but even recognizing a few helps with reading signs, menus, and forms.
Japanese typically uses a Subject–Object–Verb (SOV) structure.
For example: “She sushi eats” instead of “She eats sushi.”
In Japanese: 彼女はすしをたべます。
Particles like wa（は）, o（を）, ni（に）, and de（で）show the role of each word in the sentence.
Also, Japanese verbs don’t change based on the subject.
In English, we say “she eats” but “they eat.”
In Japanese, both are simply たべます (tabemasu)—no change.
Japanese sounds are consistent and phonetic—what you see is usually what you say. Once you know hiragana and katakana, reading becomes easier.
Pitch accent matters for natural speech, but as a beginner, focus on clear pronunciation. Listening to real conversations helps build rhythm and confidence.
In Japanese, how you speak is just as important as what you say. Showing respect through tone and expression is key.
Common polite phrases include:
・「ありがとう」 → 「ありがとうございます」 (arigatou gozaimasu)
・「失礼します」 (shitsurei shimasu) when entering or leaving
・「よろしくお願いします」 (yoroshiku onegai shimasu) at the start of meetings
In formal settings, you might also hear even more respectful forms:
・「失礼いたします」 (shitsurei itashimasu)
・「よろしくお願いいたします」 (yoroshiku onegai itashimasu)
1. Japanese often omit the subject—it’s understood from context.
For example, to say “I’m hungry,” just say:
・「おなかがすいた」 (onaka ga suita)
・「おなかがすきました」 (onaka ga sukimashita)
No need to say “I”—it’s assumed.
2. Be mindful with keigo (honorific speech).
Using very polite expressions with friends can feel awkward or distant.
Here’s how “I’m sorry” changes based on formality:
・「ごめん」 (gomen) — casual
・「失礼しました」 (shitsurei shimashita) — polite
・「失礼いたしました」 (shitsurei itashimashita) — very polite (business situations)
Choosing the right level of politeness helps you sound respectful yet natural.
Even if your grammar isn’t perfect, your tone, posture, and thoughtful word choice can go a long way in daily communication.