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Where to Start When You Learn Japanese

Learning a language is much like a rollercoaster; there are ups and downs, and sometimes you just want to get off, but once you’re finished, you’re mostly glad you did it.

If you decide to learn Japanese, prepare to be challenged, but if you succeed, look forward to the immense satisfaction. Unlike English, which uses the Latin alphabet, Japanese utilises three different scripts: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Kanji is known for being the most difficult as it is largely complex characters borrowed from Chinese, adding an extra layer of difficulty for learners.

The grammatical structure is also different. In English, we have SVO word order, so I eat sushi. Whereas Japanese uses the SOV order, I sushi eat. This can take some time to adjust to. Beginners also frequently struggle with formal vs informal speech, sometimes a difficult-to-define boundary in English. In Japanese, it can be very impolite or incorrect to use the wrong formality register. However, don’t worry, this can all be learned, as shown by the non-native speakers of Japanese around the world.

The Advantages of Learning Japanese

If you choose to learn Japanese, keep in mind the wide range of benefits, both practical and personal. One of the most obvious advantages is access to Japan’s rich culture. If you’re a fan of anime, manga, J-pop, or traditional arts like tea ceremonies and calligraphy, understanding the language allows you to appreciate these aspects on a deeper level. Watching your favourite anime without subtitles or reading Japanese literature in its original form can make the experience much more immersive.

Beyond entertainment, learning Japanese also gives you a unique skill that can open doors professionally. Japan has one of the world’s largest economies, and companies in tech, finance, and trade are always looking for employees who can bridge the gap between Japan and English-speaking markets. Even if you’re not planning to work in Japan, speaking the language can give you a competitive edge in various industries. Many learners also find that studying Japanese boosts their confidence and sense of achievement.

Because it’s often seen as a difficult language, making progress feels incredibly rewarding. Additionally, learning Japanese connects you with millions of speakers worldwide, whether through travel, online communities, or language exchange. Even if you only learn the basics, being able to communicate with native speakers can lead to meaningful interactions and a better understanding of a fascinating culture.

Studying Japanese for the Leaving Cert

Preparing for the Japanese Leaving Cert as a beginner might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it’s entirely achievable. The first step is to build a solid foundation in the basics of the language, focusing on hiragana, katakana, and essential grammar structures. These form the backbone of the exam, and mastering them early on will make everything else easier to learn. It’s also crucial to start learning common vocabulary and phrases that appear frequently in the exam, such as greetings, everyday expressions, and key verbs.

As the Leaving Cert exam is divided into listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections, beginners should dedicate time to improving listening comprehension by regularly practising with audio resources and conversations, even at a slow pace. For writing, focus on learning how to form basic sentences using correct grammar and vocabulary, and practice writing them in hiragana and katakana.

For the speaking exam, it’s important to engage in conversation practice as much as possible, even if it’s just simple exchanges to start. Superprof offers a great way to find tutors who can focus specifically on Leaving Cert preparation, tailoring lessons to target the skills required for the exam. Your tutor can help with exam technique, like time management, tackling tricky questions, and practising past papers.

Finding Beginner-Friendly Tutors on Superprof

Finding a beginner-friendly Japanese tutor on Superprof is simple and stress-free. Our platform allows you to browse a wide range of experienced tutors, many of whom specialise in teaching beginners. You can filter your search based on location, price, lesson format (online or in-person), and even teaching style to find someone who matches your learning preferences.

Each tutor has a detailed profile where you can read about their qualifications, experience, and past student reviews, helping you make an informed choice. Many tutors also offer a free first lesson, so you can see if their teaching approach suits you before committing. With Superprof, you can learn Japanese with a supportive tutor who makes the process engaging and enjoyable.