Challenges of Learning Japanese: 10 Solutions & Key Points
"Interested in learning Japanese, but what are the benefits?" "What points should I be aware of when learning Japanese?" "I want to study Japanese to enjoy anime more. Should I attend a school or is self-study difficult?"
More and more people are having these worries. By learning Japanese, you can enjoy anime and manga in their original language, and it can also help you in finding a job with a Japanese company. It also makes your trip to Japan more fulfilling when you visit.
In this article, Eri-san from JPLT Online Japanese Language School explains the advantages, disadvantages, and key points of learning Japanese in detail.
Be sure to find out about the various possibilities that can be gained through learning Japanese!
■10 Challenges in Learning Japanese and Their Solutions
1. Difficulty with Pronunciation
Challenge: Japanese speech has many vowels and different accents, so it is often difficult to pronounce.
Solution: Practice shadowing by repeatedly listening to the speech of native speakers and imitating them. It is also effective to receive feedback using an app to improve your pronunciation.
2. Learning Kanji
Challenge: The large number of kanji and their different forms and readings can be overwhelming.
Solution: Focus on the radicals in kanji and learn related characters together. Use flashcards daily and practice using kanji in sentences to retain them.
3. Complexity of Grammar
Challenge: The numerous grammar rules, especially honorifics, can be difficult.
Solution: Once you understand the basics from a grammar book, create example sentences and try using them in real life. Watching dramas and movies can help you learn how grammar is used in conversation.
4. Increasing Vocabulary
Challenge: Difficulty in remembering words.
Solution: Get into the habit of writing a diary in Japanese, and solidify your vocabulary by actually using it. When you find a new word, it’s also effective to memorize it in pairs with synonyms and antonyms.
5. Improving Listening Comprehension
Challenge: It’s difficult to understand Japanese conversations.
Solution: Listening repeatedly to podcasts and Japanese news and take notes on what is being said. Also, using an app that allows you to adjust the speed will help you understand better.
6. Lack of Confidence in Conversation
Challenge: Not feeling confident in conversations.
Solution: Build confidence through practice by speaking regularly with a language exchange partner. It’s also a good idea to use online platforms to enjoy casual conversations.
7. Maintaining Motivation
Challenge: Difficulty in sustaining study efforts.
Solution: Set short-term goals and maintain your motivation by experiencing a sense of accomplishment. You can continue to study in a fun way by using content that interests you, such as anime and manga.
8. Understanding How to Write
Challenge: Not knowing how to write in Japanese.
Solution: Write essays and ask a native speaker to correct them. Also, by continuing to write self-introductions and simple messages, you will gradually improve your writing ability.
9. Choosing Study Resources
Challenge: I don’t know which learning materials to use.
Solution: It is important to choose learning materials that suit your purpose. Choose resources according to your purpose, such as using official guides to prepare for exams and dramas and movies to improve your conversation skills.
10. Difficulty in Making Learning a Habit
Challenge: It is difficult to make learning a habit.
Solution: To incorporate learning into your daily life, make it a habit to study at a fixed time every day. Use ants to set reminders and achieve small goals to promote habit formation.
■ 5 Key Points to Keep in Mind When Learning Japanese
1. Avoid Memorizing Excessive Grammar
Point to note: It is easy to give up if you try to memorize all the grammar.
Example: It is important to focus on basic grammar that is often used in conversations, rather than memorizing all the grammar that appears in textbooks, and to learn it naturally by actually using it.
2. Be careful of Misunderstanding Katakana Word
Point to note: Foreign words written in katakana may have different meanings from those in your native language.
Example: Be careful of katakana words that have different meanings from English, such as “konkon (power plug)” and “shin (signature)”, and check how they are used in context.
3. Pay Attention to the Correct Stroke Order in Kanji
Note: If the stroke order is incorrect, the shape of the kanji will easily become distorted, which can cause problems with reading and writing.
Example: Use teaching materials to check the correct stroke order, and learn it accurately by actually writing it using a workbook.
4. Be Mindful of the Use of Honorifics
Note: The way honorific language is used varies depending on the relationship with the other person, so using it incorrectly can be considered rude.
Example: Honorific language is especially important in business situations. Learn the correct usage through role-playing, and improve while receiving feedback.
5. Understand Cultural Nuances
Note: If you do not understand the culture and social nuances behind the words, you may be misunderstood.
Example: Be sure to learn about the cultural background of Japan, such as expressions of gratitude and apology, and the timing of greetings, and be mindful of appropriate communication.
■Summary
Know the Solutions to Japanese Learning Challenges and Approach Them Appropriately!
Learning Japanese is a valuable means to deepen cultural understanding and expand your career. While pronunciation, kanji, and grammar challenges are common, they can be overcome with appropriate methods. Set specific goals and incorporate learning into daily life to maintain motivation. Understanding cultural backgrounds will help you grasp the nuances of the language.
