What is the most effective way to learn the Japanese language for you?

10 Answers

Best Answer

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  TheMuggleWriter1997

  on Apr 1

  Try changing your phone and apps to Japanese so you start recognizing words. Watching Japanese TV, anime, or YouTube without subtitles first—and then with them—can help your listening skills. You can also listen to Japanese podcasts or radio while commuting. Even if you don’t understand everything, your brain will get used to the sounds. The more you hear and see Japanese in daily life, the easier it will be to learn.

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  TheMuggleWriter1997

  on Apr 1

  I think the best way to learn a language is to befriend locals. Just like learning English, you need authentic communication.

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  amazingJAPAN

  on Apr 1

  Try to learn 10 Japanese words or phrases every day and use them daily with your Japanese friends.

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  genkidesu

  on Apr 2

  I agree that trying to immerse yourself in it as much as possible is key. I like the idea that TheMuggleWriter1997 mentioned of changing your phone apps to Japanese, but that might be a little tricky if you don't yet read hiragana/katakana/kanji. If you're trying to learn the language I think starting with watching Japanese shows can be useful. The biggest thing I had to overcome was not being intimidated/shy to use it.

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  TonetoEdo

  on Apr 3

  Are you a beginner? I'd say try a few apps and stick with them for a month at a time to see what suits you. Three things that helped me pass JLPT N2 - - Tae Kim's website for grammar and expression - https://guidetojapanese.org/learn/ - Duolingo for vocabulary, kanji, and syntax - A vocabulary app on my smartphone

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  TonetoEdo

  on Apr 3

  @TheMuggleWriter1997 The firehose method, changing settings to Japanese, is going to work for a learner who can already read a lot. I suggest easing into Japanese media by searching for key words in Japanese for topics you're interested in, e.g. ファション or 折り紙. No shame in using your native language in the browser or mobile device settings. I use Tiktok this way - searching place names and topics I'm interested in to find Japanese language content that I'm likely to keep listening to and watching.

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  genkidesu

  on Apr 8

  I've actually seen a number of Instagram accounts that do bite-sized Japanese lessons, too, with the option to sign up for longer, more involved paid programs. One is @japanesewithhikari if you want to follow along.

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  BigfamJapan

  on Apr 13

  I learned Japanese in University, so I had good writing and reading skills when I came here, but I really didn't have good listening and speaking skills, although I had a good base of vocabulary. What worked best for me was hanging out with Japanese friends. And I also set up a language exchange with a Japanese friend, that really upped my practical use of vocabulary more than anything else.

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  genkidesu

  on Apr 25

  Checking in to see if you've had any progress over the last few weeks -- hope some of the suggestions have yielded a fruitful start to your learning! :)

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  TonetoEdo

  on May 7

  It's been a little over a month since you asked us about learning the language effectively. Which suggestions appealed to you? Which ones are working for you?

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