1,000 Basic Japanese Words and Phrases for Casual Conversations

There’s a unique magic in seeing someone’s face light up when you speak to them in their native language.

That’s exactly why I created this guide.

I’ve compiled 1,000 of the most practical and essential Japanese words and phrases—the ones you actually need to start communicating and building bridges. This is your first step toward real conversations and meaningful connections in Japan. Let’s get started!

Essential Greetings

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Three smiling people in Japan -- Japanese Words — *Three smiling people in Japan — Japanese Words*

Start every interaction on the right foot with these crucial greetings.

こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – (Kohn-nee-chee-wah) – Hello
おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu) – (Oh-hah-yoh go-zah-ee-mahs) – Good morning
こんばんは (Konbanwa) – (Kohn-bahn-wah) – Good evening
さようなら (Sayounara) – (Sah-yoh-nah-rah) – Goodbye
おやすみなさい (Oyasuminasai) – (Oh-yah-soo-mee-nah-sah-ee) – Good night
ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – (Ah-ree-gah-toh go-zah-ee-mahs) – Thank you
すみません (Sumimasen) – (Soo-mee-mah-sen) – Excuse me/Sorry
ごめんなさい (Gomennasai) – (Go-men-nah-sah-ee) – I’m sorry
はじめまして (Hajimemashite) – (Hah-jee-meh-mah-she-teh) – Nice to meet you
またね (Mata ne) – (Mah-tah neh) – See you later

Polite Expressions

Show respect and navigate social situations smoothly with these polite phrases.

お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – (Oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – Please
どういたしまして (Dou itashimashite) – (Doh ee-tah-she-mah-she-teh) – You’re welcome
大丈夫ですか？ (Daijoubu desu ka?) – (Dah-ee-joh-boo dess kah?) – Are you okay?
はい、大丈夫です (Hai, daijoubu desu) – (Hah-ee, dah-ee-joh-boo dess) – Yes, I’m okay
いただきます (Itadakimasu) – (Ee-tah-dah-kee-mahs) – Thank you for the meal (before eating)
ごちそうさまでした (Gochisousama deshita) – (Go-chee-soh-sah-mah desh-tah) – Thank you for the meal (after eating)
お元気ですか？ (Ogenki desu ka?) – (Oh-gen-kee dess kah?) – How are you?
はい、元気です (Hai, genki desu) – (Hah-ee, gen-kee dess) – I’m good
お久しぶりです (Ohisashiburi desu) – (Oh-hee-sah-she-boo-ree dess) – Long time no see
よろしくお願いします (Yoroshiku onegaishimasu) – (Yoh-roh-she-koo oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – Nice to meet you (formal)

Basic Questions

To have a conversation, you need to be able to ask questions, and these are the most fundamental ones.

何ですか？ (Nan desu ka?) – (Nahn dess kah?) – What is it?
どこですか？ (Doko desu ka?) – (Doh-koh dess kah?) – Where is it?
いくらですか？ (Ikura desu ka?) – (Ee-koo-rah dess kah?) – How much is it?
どうして？ (Doushite?) – (Doh-she-teh?) – Why?
どうやって？ (Douyatte?) – (Doh-yaht-teh?) – How?
誰ですか？ (Dare desu ka?) – (Dah-reh dess kah?) – Who is it?
いつですか？ (Itsu desu ka?) – (Ee-tsoo dess kah?) – When is it?
わかりますか？ (Wakarimasu ka?) – (Wah-kah-ree-mahs kah?) – Do you understand?
英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?) – (Eh-ee-go oh hah-nah-seh-mahs kah?) – Can you speak English?
トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?) – (Toy-reh wah doh-koh dess kah?) – Where is the bathroom?

Common Responses

Keep the conversation flowing with these simple but essential responses.

はい (Hai) – (Hah-ee) – Yes
いいえ (Iie) – (Ee-yeh) – No
わかりません (Wakarimasen) – (Wah-kah-ree-mah-sen) – I don’t understand
そうですね (Sou desu ne) – (Soh dess neh) – That’s right/I agree
ちょっと待ってください (Chotto matte kudasai) – (Choht-toh maht-teh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Please wait a moment
もう一度お願いします (Mou ichido onegaishimasu) – (Moh ee-chee-doh oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – Please say it again
ゆっくり話してください (Yukkuri hanashite kudasai) – (Yook-koo-ree hah-nah-she-teh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Please speak slowly
日本語がわかりません (Nihongo ga wakarimasen) – (Nee-hohn-go gah wah-kah-ree-mah-sen) – I don’t understand Japanese
英語で話してください (Eigo de hanashite kudasai) – (Eh-ee-go deh hah-nah-she-teh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Please speak in English
書いてください (Kaite kudasai) – (Kah-ee-teh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Please write it down
たぶん (Tabun) – (Tah-boon) – Maybe/Probably
もちろん (Mochiron) – (Moh-chee-rohn) – Of course
問題ありません (Mondai arimasen) – (Mohn-dah-ee ah-ree-mah-sen) – No problem
手伝ってください (Tetsudatte kudasai) – (Tet-soo-daht-teh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Please help me
心配しないで (Shinpai shinaide) – (Sheen-pah-ee she-nah-ee-deh) – Don’t worry

Before you read the rest of this guide, watch this helpful video about the most helpful Japanese words to learn if you are traveling to Japan soon:

YouTube Video by Ninjapanese — Japanese Words and Phrases

Numbers (1-20)

From prices to phone numbers, mastering the Japanese counting system is a must.

零/ゼロ (Rei/Zero) – (Ray/Zeh-roh) – Zero
一 (Ichi) – (Ee-chee) – One
二 (Ni) – (Nee) – Two
三 (San) – (Sahn) – Three
四 (Yon/Shi) – (Yohn/Shee) – Four
五 (Go) – (Go) – Five
六 (Roku) – (Roh-koo) – Six
七 (Nana/Shichi) – (Nah-nah/Shee-chee) – Seven
八 (Hachi) – (Hah-chee) – Eight
九 (Kyuu/Ku) – (Kyoo/Koo) – Nine
十 (Juu) – (Joo) – Ten
百 (Hyaku) – (Hyah-koo) – One hundred
千 (Sen) – (Sen) – One thousand
万 (Man) – (Mahn) – Ten thousand
第一 (Daiichi) – (Dah-ee-chee) – First
第二 (Daini) – (Dah-ee-nee) – Second
第三 (Daisan) – (Dah-ee-sahn) – Third
半分 (Hanbun) – (Hahn-boon) – Half
全部 (Zenbu) – (Zen-boo) – All/Everything
少し (Sukoshi) – (Sko-shee) – A little

Time Expressions

Learn to talk about today, tomorrow, and yesterday with these key time-related words.

今 (Ima) – (Ee-mah) – Now
今日 (Kyou) – (Kyoh) – Today
昨日 (Kinou) – (Kee-noh) – Yesterday
明日 (Ashita) – (Ah-she-tah) – Tomorrow
今週 (Konshuu) – (Kohn-shoo) – This week
先週 (Senshuu) – (Sen-shoo) – Last week
来週 (Raishuu) – (Rah-ee-shoo) – Next week
今月 (Kongetsu) – (Kohn-ge-tsoo) – This month
先月 (Sengetsu) – (Sen-ge-tsoo) – Last month
来月 (Raigetsu) – (Rah-ee-ge-tsoo) – Next month
今年 (Kotoshi) – (Koh-toh-she) – This year
去年 (Kyonen) – (Kyoh-nen) – Last year
来年 (Rainen) – (Rah-ee-nen) – Next year
朝 (Asa) – (Ah-sah) – Morning
昼 (Hiru) – (Hee-roo) – Noon/Afternoon
夜 (Yoru) – (Yoh-roo) – Night/Evening
午前 (Gozen) – (Go-zen) – AM
午後 (Gogo) – (Go-go) – PM
時 (Ji) – (Jee) – O’clock
分 (Fun/Pun) – (Foon/Poon) – Minutes
秒 (Byou) – (Byoh) – Seconds
早い (Hayai) – (Hah-yah-ee) – Early/Fast
遅い (Osoi) – (Oh-soy) – Late/Slow
いつも (Itsumo) – (Ee-tsoo-moh) – Always
たまに (Tama ni) – (Tah-mah nee) – Sometimes

Family Terms

Here’s how to refer to your own family members and respectfully ask about others.

家族 (Kazoku) – (Kah-zoh-koo) – Family
父 (Chichi) – (Chee-chee) – Father (my)
お父さん (Otousan) – (Oh-toh-sahn) – Father (someone else’s)
母 (Haha) – (Hah-hah) – Mother (my)
お母さん (Okaasan) – (Oh-kah-sahn) – Mother (someone else’s)
兄 (Ani) – (Ah-nee) – Older brother (my)
お兄さん (Oniisan) – (Oh-nee-sahn) – Older brother (someone else’s)
姉 (Ane) – (Ah-neh) – Older sister (my)
お姉さん (Oneesan) – (Oh-neh-sahn) – Older sister (someone else’s)
弟 (Otouto) – (Oh-toh-toh) – Younger brother
妹 (Imouto) – (Ee-moh-toh) – Younger sister
祖父 (Sofu) – (Soh-foo) – Grandfather (my)
祖母 (Sobo) – (Soh-boh) – Grandmother (my)
子供 (Kodomo) – (Koh-doh-moh) – Child/Children
赤ちゃん (Akachan) – (Ah-kah-chahn) – Baby

Common Verbs

Verbs are the engines of language, and these are the ones you’ll use most often.

する (Suru) – (Soo-roo) – To do
いる (Iru) – (Ee-roo) – To be (animate)
ある (Aru) – (Ah-roo) – To be (inanimate)/To have
行く (Iku) – (Ee-koo) – To go
来る (Kuru) – (Koo-roo) – To come
食べる (Taberu) – (Tah-beh-roo) – To eat
飲む (Nomu) – (Noh-moo) – To drink
見る (Miru) – (Mee-roo) – To see/watch
聞く (Kiku) – (Kee-koo) – To hear/listen
話す (Hanasu) – (Hah-nah-soo) – To speak/talk
読む (Yomu) – (Yoh-moo) – To read
書く (Kaku) – (Kah-koo) – To write
買う (Kau) – (Kah-oo) – To buy
売る (Uru) – (Oo-roo) – To sell
働く (Hataraku) – (Hah-tah-rah-koo) – To work
勉強する (Benkyou suru) – (Ben-kyoh soo-roo) – To study
寝る (Neru) – (Neh-roo) – To sleep
起きる (Okiru) – (Oh-kee-roo) – To wake up/get up
座る (Suwaru) – (Soo-wah-roo) – To sit
立つ (Tatsu) – (Tah-tsoo) – To stand
歩く (Aruku) – (Ah-roo-koo) – To walk
走る (Hashiru) – (Hah-she-roo) – To run
泳ぐ (Oyogu) – (Oh-yoh-goo) – To swim
遊ぶ (Asobu) – (Ah-soh-boo) – To play
休む (Yasumu) – (Yah-soo-moo) – To rest
待つ (Matsu) – (Mah-tsoo) – To wait
帰る (Kaeru) – (Kah-eh-roo) – To return/go home
出る (Deru) – (Deh-roo) – To leave/go out
入る (Hairu) – (Hah-ee-roo) – To enter
開ける (Akeru) – (Ah-keh-roo) – To open
教える (Oshieru) – (Oh-she-eh-roo) – To teach, to tell
習う (Narau) – (Nah-rah-oo) – To learn
借りる (Kariru) – (Kah-ree-roo) – To borrow
返す (Kaesu) – (Kah-eh-soo) – To return (an item)
使う (Tsukau) – (Tskah-oo) – To use
作る (Tsukuru) – (Tskoo-roo) – To make, to create
直す (Naosu) – (Nah-oh-soo) – To fix, to repair
送る (Okuru) – (Oh-koo-roo) – To send
もらう (Morau) – (Moh-rah-oo) – To receive
あげる (Ageru) – (Ah-geh-roo) – To give
持つ (Motsu) – (Moh-tsoo) – To hold, to have
探す (Sagasu) – (Sah-gah-soo) – To search for
見つける (Mitsukeru) – (Mee-tskeh-roo) – To find
始める (Hajimeru) – (Hah-jee-meh-roo) – To begin
終わる (Owaru) – (Oh-wah-roo) – To end, to finish
閉める (Shimeru) – (She-meh-roo) – To close
付ける (Tsukeru) – (Tskeh-roo) – To turn on
消す (Kesu) – (Keh-soo) – To turn off, to erase
死ぬ (Shinu) – (Shee-noo) – To die
生まれる (Umareru) – (Oo-mah-reh-roo) – To be born
着る (Kiru) – (Kee-roo) – To wear (on upper body)
履く (Haku) – (Hah-koo) – To wear (on lower body)
歌う (Utau) – (Oo-tah-oo) – To sing
弾く (Hiku) – (Hee-koo) – To play (a stringed instrument)
描く (Kaku/Egaku) – (Kah-koo/Eh-gah-koo) – To draw, to paint
違う (Chigau) – (Chee-gah-oo) – To be different, to be wrong
選ぶ (Erabu) – (Eh-rah-boo) – To choose
呼ぶ (Yobu) – (Yoh-boo) – To call out, to invite
死ぬ (Shinu) – (Shee-noo) – To die
生きる (Ikiru) – (Ee-kee-roo) – To live

Common Adjectives

Add color and detail to your descriptions with this list of essential adjectives.

大きい (Ookii) – (Oh-kee) – Big/Large
小さい (Chiisai) – (Chee-sah-ee) – Small
新しい (Atarashii) – (Ah-tah-rah-shee) – New
古い (Furui) – (Foo-roo-ee) – Old
良い/いい (Yoi/Ii) – (Yoy/Ee) – Good
悪い (Warui) – (Wah-roo-ee) – Bad
高い (Takai) – (Tah-kah-ee) – High/Expensive
安い (Yasui) – (Yah-soo-ee) – Cheap
長い (Nagai) – (Nah-gah-ee) – Long
短い (Mijikai) – (Mee-jee-kah-ee) – Short
広い (Hiroi) – (Hee-roy) – Wide/Spacious
狭い (Semai) – (Seh-mah-ee) – Narrow
熱い (Atsui) – (Ah-tsoo-ee) – Hot
冷たい (Tsumetai) – (Tsoo-meh-tah-ee) – Cold (to touch)
寒い (Samui) – (Sah-moo-ee) – Cold (weather)
暖かい (Atatakai) – (Ah-tah-tah-kah-ee) – Warm
美しい (Utsukushii) – (Oo-tsoo-koo-shee) – Beautiful
きれい (Kirei) – (Kee-ray) – Pretty/Clean
汚い (Kitanai) – (Kee-tah-nah-ee) – Dirty
面白い (Omoshiroi) – (Oh-moh-she-roy) – Interesting/Funny
つまらない (Tsumaranai) – (Tsoo-mah-rah-nah-ee) – Boring
難しい (Muzukashii) – (Moo-zoo-kah-shee) – Difficult
易しい (Yasashii) – (Yah-sah-shee) – Easy/Kind
忙しい (Isogashii) – (Ee-soh-gah-shee) – Busy
静か (Shizuka) – (She-zoo-kah) – Quiet
明るい (Akarui) – (Ah-kah-roo-ee) – Bright
暗い (Kurai) – (Koo-rah-ee) – Dark
重い (Omoi) – (Oh-moy) – Heavy
軽い (Karui) – (Kah-roo-ee) – Light (weight)
硬い (Katai) – (Kah-tah-ee) – Hard, stiff
柔らかい (Yawarakai) – (Yah-wah-rah-kah-ee) – Soft
太い (Futoi) – (Foo-toy) – Thick, fat
細い (Hosoi) – (Hoh-soy) – Thin, slender
珍しい (Mezurashii) – (Meh-zoo-rah-shee) – Rare, unusual
眠い (Nemui) – (Neh-moo-ee) – Sleepy
優しい (Yasashii) – (Yah-sah-shee) – Kind, gentle
厳しい (Kibishii) – (Kee-bee-shee) – Strict
すごい (Sugoi) – (Soo-goy) – Amazing, incredible
ひどい (Hidoi) – (Hee-doy) – Terrible, awful
正しい (Tadashii) – (Tah-dah-shee) – Correct
同じ (Onaji) – (Oh-nah-jee) – Same
便利 (Benri) – (Ben-ree) – Convenient
不便 (Fuben) – (Foo-ben) – Inconvenient
大事 (Daiji) – (Dah-ee-jee) – Important
大好き (Daisuki) – (Dah-ee-soo-kee) – To love, like a lot
大嫌い (Daikirai) – (Dah-ee-kee-rah-ee) – To hate
上手 (Jouzu) – (Joh-zoo) – Skillful, good at
下手 (Heta) – (Heh-tah) – Unskillful, bad at
親切 (Shinsetsu) – (Sheen-set-soo) – Kind
有名 (Yuumei) – (Yoo-may) – Famous

Common Adverbs & Expressions of Degree

Modify your verbs and add emphasis with these incredibly useful adverbs.

とても (Totemo) – (Toh-teh-moh) – Very
あまり (Amari) – (Ah-mah-ree) – Not much (with negative)
一番 (Ichiban) – (Ee-chee-bahn) – Number one, the most
もっと (Motto) – (Moht-toh) – More
少し (Sukoshi) – (Sko-shee) – A little
たくさん (Takusan) – (Tah-koo-sahn) – A lot, many
よく (Yoku) – (Yoh-koo) – Often, well
時々 (Tokidoki) – (Toh-kee-doh-kee) – Sometimes
もうすぐ (Mousugu) – (Moh-soo-goo) – Soon
後で (Ato de) – (Ah-toh deh) – Later
先に (Saki ni) – (Sah-kee nee) – First, ahead
速く (Hayaku) – (Hah-yah-koo) – Quickly, fast
ゆっくり (Yukkuri) – (Yook-koo-ree) – Slowly
多分 (Tabun) – (Tah-boon) – Probably
本当に (Hontou ni) – (Hohn-toh nee) – Really, truly
最後に (Saigo ni) – (Sah-ee-go nee) – Lastly, finally
最初に (Saisho ni) – (Sah-ee-sho nee) – Firstly, at the beginning
別々に (Betsubetsu ni) – (Bet-soo-bet-soo nee) – Separately
直接 (Chokusetsu) – (Cho-koo-set-soo) – Directly
特に (Toku ni) – (Toh-koo nee) – Especially

Common Nouns

This section will help you talk about everyday people, places, and things.

People & Roles

友達 (Tomodachi) – (Toh-moh-dah-chee) – Friend
彼氏 (Kareshi) – (Kah-reh-shee) – Boyfriend
彼女 (Kanojo) – (Kah-no-joh) – Girlfriend / She
大人 (Otona) – (Oh-toh-nah) – Adult
他人 (Tanin) – (Tah-neen) – Other people, stranger
皆さん (Minasan) – (Mee-nah-sahn) – Everyone
社長 (Shachou) – (Shah-choh) – Company president
店員 (Tenin) – (Teh-een) – Shop employee
駅員 (Ekiin) – (Eh-kee-een) – Station attendant
運転手 (Untenshu) – (Oon-ten-shoo) – Driver
警察官 (Keisatsukan) – (Kay-saht-soo-kahn) – Police officer
消防士 (Shouboushi) – (Sho-boh-shee) – Firefighter
料理人 (Ryourinin) – (Ryoh-ree-neen) – Chef, cook
作家 (Sakka) – (Sahk-kah) – Author, writer
歌手 (Kashu) – (Kah-shoo) – Singer

Nature & Environment

空 (Sora) – (Soh-rah) – Sky
太陽 (Taiyou) – (Tah-ee-yoh) – Sun
月 (Tsuki) – (Tskee) – Moon
星 (Hoshi) – (Hoh-shee) – Star
木 (Ki) – (Kee) – Tree
花 (Hana) – (Hah-nah) – Flower
草 (Kusa) – (Koo-sah) – Grass
石 (Ishi) – (Ee-shee) – Stone
光 (Hikari) – (Hee-kah-ree) – Light
音 (Oto) – (Oh-toh) – Sound
虫 (Mushi) – (Moo-shee) – Insect
池 (Ike) – (Ee-keh) – Pond
島 (Shima) – (Shee-mah) – Island
海岸 (Kaigan) – (Kah-ee-gahn) – Coast, beach
自然 (Shizen) – (Shee-zen) – Nature

Around the House & City

ドア (Doa) – (Doh-ah) – Door
窓 (Mado) – (Mah-doh) – Window
机 (Tsukue) – (Tskoo-eh) – Desk
椅子 (Isu) – (Ee-soo) – Chair
ベッド (Beddo) – (Bed-doh) – Bed
台所 (Daidokoro) – (Dah-ee-doh-koh-roh) – Kitchen
お風呂 (Ofuro) – (Oh-foo-roh) – Bathroom/Bath
庭 (Niwa) – (Nee-wah) – Garden, yard
壁 (Kabe) – (Kah-beh) – Wall
床 (Yuka) – (Yoo-kah) – Floor
天井 (Tenjou) – (Ten-joh) – Ceiling
玄関 (Genkan) – (Gen-kahn) – Entranceway
交差点 (Kousaten) – (Koh-sah-ten) – Intersection
信号 (Shingou) – (Sheen-goh) – Traffic light
橋 (Hashi) – (Hah-shee) – Bridge
駐車場 (Chuushajou) – (Choo-shah-joh) – Parking lot
ビル (Biru) – (Bee-roo) – Building
寺 (Tera) – (Teh-rah) – Temple
神社 (Jinja) – (Jeen-jah) – Shrine
交番 (Kouban) – (Koh-bahn) – Police box
角 (Kado) – (Kah-doh) – Corner
階段 (Kaidan) – (Kah-ee-dahn) – Stairs
エレベーター (Erebeetaa) – (Eh-reh-beh-tah) – Elevator
エスカレーター (Esukareetaa) – (Eh-soo-kah-reh-tah) – Escalator
建物 (Tatemono) – (Tah-teh-moh-no) – Building, structure

Abstract Concepts

こと (Koto) – (Koh-toh) – Thing, matter, fact
もの (Mono) – (Moh-no) – Thing (physical object)
理由 (Riyuu) – (Ree-yoo) – Reason
意味 (Imi) – (Ee-mee) – Meaning
問題 (Mondai) – (Mohn-dah-ee) – Problem, question
答え (Kotae) – (Koh-tah-eh) – Answer
声 (Koe) – (Koh-eh) – Voice
匂い (Nioi) – (Nee-oy) – Smell, scent
味 (Aji) – (Ah-jee) – Taste, flavor
予定 (Yotei) – (Yoh-tay) – Plan, schedule
用事 (Youji) – (Yoh-jee) – Errand, things to do
夢 (Yume) – (Yoo-meh) – Dream
力 (Chikara) – (Chee-kah-rah) – Power, strength
心 (Kokoro) – (Koh-koh-roh) – Heart, mind, spirit
世界 (Sekai) – (Seh-kah-ee) – World
生活 (Seikatsu) – (Say-kaht-soo) – Life, living
文化 (Bunka) – (Boon-kah) – Culture
歴史 (Rekishi) – (Reh-kee-shee) – History
平和 (Heiwa) – (Hey-wah) – Peace
戦争 (Sensou) – (Sen-soh) – War

Food and Drink

Get ready to order at restaurants and talk about your favorite foods with this delicious vocabulary. Connect this section with the section on phrases for dining out, and you won’t go hungry or thirsty in Japan.

食べ物 (Tabemono) – (Tah-beh-moh-no) – Food
飲み物 (Nomimono) – (Noh-mee-moh-no) – Drink/Beverage
水 (Mizu) – (Mee-zoo) – Water
お茶 (Ocha) – (Oh-chah) – Tea
コーヒー (Koohii) – (Koh-hee) – Coffee
ビール (Biiru) – (Bee-roo) – Beer
ワイン (Wain) – (Wah-een) – Wine
牛乳 (Gyuunyuu) – (Gyoo-nyoo) – Milk
ジュース (Juusu) – (Joo-soo) – Juice
ご飯 (Gohan) – (Go-hahn) – Rice/Meal
パン (Pan) – (Pahn) – Bread
肉 (Niku) – (Nee-koo) – Meat
魚 (Sakana) – (Sah-kah-nah) – Fish
野菜 (Yasai) – (Yah-sah-ee) – Vegetables
果物 (Kudamono) – (Koo-dah-moh-no) – Fruit
りんご (Ringo) – (Reen-go) – Apple
バナナ (Banana) – (Bah-nah-nah) – Banana
みかん (Mikan) – (Mee-kahn) – Orange
卵 (Tamago) – (Tah-mah-go) – Egg
牛肉 (Gyuuniku) – (Gyoo-nee-koo) – Beef
豚肉 (Butaniku) – (Boo-tah-nee-koo) – Pork
鶏肉 (Toriniku) – (Toh-ree-nee-koo) – Chicken
すし (Sushi) – (Soo-she) – Sushi
ラーメン (Raamen) – (Rah-men) – Ramen
うどん (Udon) – (Oo-dohn) – Udon noodles
そば (Soba) – (Soh-bah) – Soba noodles
天ぷら (Tempura) – (Tem-poo-rah) – Tempura
みそ汁 (Misoshiru) – (Mee-so-she-roo) – Miso soup
サラダ (Sarada) – (Sah-rah-dah) – Salad
ケーキ (Keeki) – (Keh-kee) – Cake
アイスクリーム (Aisukuriimu) – (Ah-ee-soo-koo-ree-moo) – Ice cream
チョコレート (Chokoreeto) – (Cho-ko-reh-toh) – Chocolate
砂糖 (Satou) – (Sah-toh) – Sugar
塩 (Shio) – (She-oh) – Salt
しょうゆ (Shouyu) – (Sho-yoo) – Soy sauce
美味しい (Oishii) – (Oy-shee) – Delicious
まずい (Mazui) – (Mah-zoo-ee) – Tastes bad
甘い (Amai) – (Ah-mah-ee) – Sweet
辛い (Karai) – (Kah-rah-ee) – Spicy/Salty
苦い (Nigai) – (Nee-gah-ee) – Bitter
酸っぱい (Suppai) – (Soop-pah-ee) – Sour
しょっぱい (Shoppai) – (Shop-pah-ee) – Salty
油っこい (Aburakkoi) – (Ah-boo-rahk-koy) – Oily, greasy
醤油 (Shouyu) – (Shoh-yoo) – Soy sauce
砂糖 (Satou) – (Sah-toh) – Sugar
塩 (Shio) – (Shee-oh) – Salt
酢 (Su) – (Soo) – Vinegar
油 (Abura) – (Ah-boo-rah) – Oil
胡椒 (Koshou) – (Koh-shoh) – Pepper
味噌 (Miso) – (Mee-soh) – Miso (soybean paste)
豆腐 (Toufu) – (Toh-foo) – Tofu
納豆 (Nattou) – (Naht-toh) – Fermented soybeans
海苔 (Nori) – (Noh-ree) – Seaweed
卵焼き (Tamagoyaki) – (Tah-mah-go-yah-kee) – Japanese rolled omelet
刺身 (Sashimi) – (Sah-shee-mee) – Sliced raw fish
焼肉 (Yakiniku) – (Yah-kee-nee-koo) – Grilled meat
焼き鳥 (Yakitori) – (Yah-kee-toh-ree) – Grilled chicken skewers
唐揚げ (Karaage) – (Kah-rah-ah-geh) – Japanese fried chicken
おにぎり (Onigiri) – (Oh-nee-ghee-ree) – Rice ball
弁当 (Bentou) – (Ben-toh) – Boxed lunch
飲み放題 (Nomihoudai) – (Noh-mee-hoh-dah-ee) – All-you-can-drink
食べ放題 (Tabehoudai) – (Tah-beh-hoh-dah-ee) – All-you-can-eat

Shopping and Money

Navigate any store and handle transactions confidently with these shopping-related terms.

お金 (Okane) – (Oh-kah-neh) – Money
円 (En) – (En) – Yen
買い物 (Kaimono) – (Kah-ee-moh-no) – Shopping
店 (Mise) – (Mee-seh) – Store/Shop
スーパー (Suupaa) – (Soo-pah) – Supermarket
デパート (Depaato) – (Deh-pah-toh) – Department store
コンビニ (Konbini) – (Kohn-bee-nee) – Convenience store
市場 (Ichiba) – (Ee-chee-bah) – Market
値段 (Nedan) – (Neh-dahn) – Price
レシート (Reshiito) – (Reh-shee-toh) – Receipt
お釣り (Otsuri) – (Oh-tsoo-ree) – Change
クレジットカード (Kurejitto kaado) – (Koo-reh-jeet-toh kah-doh) – Credit card
現金 (Genkin) – (Gen-keen) – Cash
袋 (Fukuro) – (Foo-koo-roh) – Bag
安売り (Yasuurii) – (Yah-soo-ree) – Sale
割引 (Waribiki) – (Wah-ree-bee-kee) – Discount
無料 (Muryou) – (Moo-ryoh) – Free
税金 (Zeikin) – (Zay-keen) – Tax
支払い (Shiharai) – (She-hah-rah-ee) – Payment
商品 (Shouhin) – (Sho-heen) – Product/Goods

Travel and Transportation

Whether you’re on a train, plane, or bus, these words will help you get where you’re going.

旅行 (Ryokou) – (Ryo-koh) – Travel
電車 (Densha) – (Den-shah) – Train
バス (Basu) – (Bah-soo) – Bus
タクシー (Takushii) – (Tah-koo-shee) – Taxi
飛行機 (Hikouki) – (Hee-koh-kee) – Airplane
空港 (Kuukou) – (Koo-koh) – Airport
駅 (Eki) – (Eh-kee) – Station
地下鉄 (Chikatetsu) – (Chee-kah-teh-tsoo) – Subway
車 (Kuruma) – (Koo-roo-mah) – Car
自転車 (Jitensha) – (Jee-ten-shah) – Bicycle
船 (Fune) – (Foo-neh) – Ship/Boat
道 (Michi) – (Mee-chee) – Road/Way
地図 (Chizu) – (Chee-zoo) – Map
切符 (Kippu) – (Keep-poo) – Ticket
予約 (Yoyaku) – (Yoh-yah-koo) – Reservation
ホテル (Hoteru) – (Hoh-teh-roo) – Hotel
旅館 (Ryokan) – (Ryo-kahn) – Traditional inn
部屋 (Heya) – (Heh-yah) – Room
鍵 (Kagi) – (Kah-ghee) – Key
パスポート (Pasupooto) – (Pah-soo-poh-toh) – Passport
荷物 (Nimotsu) – (Nee-moh-tsoo) – Luggage
観光 (Kankou) – (Kahn-koh) – Sightseeing
写真 (Shashin) – (Shah-sheen) – Photo
カメラ (Kamera) – (Kah-meh-rah) – Camera
お土産 (Omiyage) – (Oh-mee-yah-geh) – Souvenir
出発 (Shuppatsu) – (Shoop-pah-tsoo) – Departure
到着 (Touchaku) – (Toh-chah-koo) – Arrival
遅れる (Okureru) – (Oh-koo-reh-roo) – To be late
急ぐ (Isogu) – (Ee-soh-goo) – To hurry
迷う (Mayou) – (Mah-yoh-oo) – To get lost

Directions

Never get lost again—or at least know how to ask for help—with these words for direction.

右 (Migi) – (Mee-ghee) – Right
左 (Hidari) – (Hee-dah-ree) – Left
まっすぐ (Massugu) – (Mahs-soo-goo) – Straight
前 (Mae) – (Mah-eh) – Front/Before
後ろ (Ushiro) – (Oo-she-roh) – Back/Behind
上 (Ue) – (Oo-eh) – Up/Above
下 (Shita) – (She-tah) – Down/Below
中 (Naka) – (Nah-kah) – Inside
外 (Soto) – (Soh-toh) – Outside
近い (Chikai) – (Chee-kah-ee) – Near/Close
遠い (Tooi) – (Toh-ee) – Far
隣 (Tonari) – (Toh-nah-ree) – Next to
向こう (Mukou) – (Moo-koh) – Over there
こちら (Kochira) – (Koh-chee-rah) – This way
あちら (Achira) – (Ah-chee-rah) – That way

Weather

From sunny days to typhoons, here’s how to talk about the weather like a local.

天気 (Tenki) – (Ten-kee) – Weather
晴れ (Hare) – (Hah-reh) – Sunny/Clear
曇り (Kumori) – (Koo-moh-ree) – Cloudy
雨 (Ame) – (Ah-meh) – Rain
雪 (Yuki) – (Yoo-kee) – Snow
風 (Kaze) – (Kah-zeh) – Wind
台風 (Taifuu) – (Tah-ee-foo) – Typhoon
暑い (Atsui) – (Ah-tsoo-ee) – Hot
涼しい (Suzushii) – (Soo-zoo-shee) – Cool
湿度 (Shitsudo) – (She-tsoo-doh) – Humidity
乾燥 (Kansou) – (Kahn-soh) – Dry
雷 (Kaminari) – (Kah-mee-nah-ree) – Thunder
傘 (Kasa) – (Kah-sah) – Umbrella
気温 (Kion) – (Kee-ohn) – Temperature
季節 (Kisetsu) – (Kee-seh-tsoo) – Season

Colors

Learn the words for all the colors of the rainbow and beyond.

色 (Iro) – (Ee-roh) – Color
赤 (Aka) – (Ah-kah) – Red
青 (Ao) – (Ah-oh) – Blue
黄色 (Kiiro) – (Kee-roh) – Yellow
緑 (Midori) – (Mee-doh-ree) – Green
黒 (Kuro) – (Koo-roh) – Black
白 (Shiro) – (Shee-roh) – White
茶色 (Chairo) – (Chah-ee-roh) – Brown
ピンク (Pinku) – (Peen-koo) – Pink
紫 (Murasaki) – (Moo-rah-sah-kee) – Purple
オレンジ (Orenji) – (Oh-ren-jee) – Orange
グレー (Guree) – (Goo-reh) – Gray

Body Parts

This vocabulary is essential for everything from describing a person to explaining what hurts.

体 (Karada) – (Kah-rah-dah) – Body
頭 (Atama) – (Ah-tah-mah) – Head
髪 (Kami) – (Kah-mee) – Hair
顔 (Kao) – (Kah-oh) – Face
目 (Me) – (Meh) – Eye
鼻 (Hana) – (Hah-nah) – Nose
口 (Kuchi) – (Koo-chee) – Mouth
耳 (Mimi) – (Mee-mee) – Ear
首 (Kubi) – (Koo-bee) – Neck
肩 (Kata) – (Kah-tah) – Shoulder
腕 (Ude) – (Oo-deh) – Arm
手 (Te) – (Teh) – Hand
指 (Yubi) – (Yoo-bee) – Finger
胸 (Mune) – (Moo-neh) – Chest
お腹 (Onaka) – (Oh-nah-kah) – Stomach
背中 (Senaka) – (Seh-nah-kah) – Back
足 (Ashi) – (Ah-shee) – Leg/Foot
膝 (Hiza) – (Hee-zah) – Knee
心臓 (Shinzou) – (Sheen-zoh) – Heart
血 (Chi) – (Chee) – Blood
喉 (Nodo) – (Noh-doh) – Throat
歯 (Ha) – (Hah) – Tooth
舌 (Shita) – (Shee-tah) – Tongue
唇 (Kuchibiru) – (Koo-chee-bee-roo) – Lips
頬 (Hoho) – (Hoh-hoh) – Cheek
顎 (Ago) – (Ah-go) – Chin, jaw
肘 (Hiji) – (Hee-jee) – Elbow
腰 (Koshi) – (Koh-shee) – Lower back, hips
肌 (Hada) – (Hah-dah) – Skin
骨 (Hone) – (Hoh-neh) – Bone
筋肉 (Kinniku) – (Keen-nee-koo) – Muscle

Health and Medicine

Be prepared for a visit to the doctor or pharmacy with these important health-related terms.

健康 (Kenkou) – (Ken-koh) – Health
病気 (Byouki) – (Byoh-kee) – Illness/Disease
病院 (Byouin) – (Byoh-een) – Hospital
医者 (Isha) – (Ee-shah) – Doctor
看護師 (Kangoshi) – (Kahn-go-shee) – Nurse
薬 (Kusuri) – (Koo-soo-ree) – Medicine
薬局 (Yakkyoku) – (Yahk-kyoh-koo) – Pharmacy
風邪 (Kaze) – (Kah-zeh) – Cold
熱 (Netsu) – (Neh-tsoo) – Fever
咳 (Seki) – (Seh-kee) – Cough
頭痛 (Zutsuu) – (Zoo-tsoo) – Headache
腹痛 (Fukutsuu) – (Foo-koo-tsoo) – Stomachache
痛い (Itai) – (Ee-tah-ee) – Painful/It hurts
疲れた (Tsukareta) – (Tsoo-kah-reh-tah) – Tired
眠い (Nemui) – (Neh-moo-ee) – Sleepy
元気 (Genki) – (Gen-kee) – Healthy/Energetic
怪我 (Kega) – (Keh-gah) – Injury
救急車 (Kyuukyuusha) – (Kyoo-kyoo-shah) – Ambulance
保険 (Hoken) – (Hoh-ken) – Insurance
治る (Naoru) – (Nah-oh-roo) – To heal/recover
アレルギー (Arerugii) – (Ah-reh-roo-ghee) – Allergy
薬を飲む (Kusuri o nomu) – (Koo-soo-ree oh noh-moo) – To take medicine
具合が悪いです (Guai ga warui desu) – (Goo-ah-ee gah wah-roo-ee dess) – I feel sick.
大丈夫です (Daijoubu desu) – (Dah-ee-joh-boo dess) – I’m okay.

Emotions and Feelings

Express yourself more deeply by learning how to talk about your feelings.

気持ち (Kimochi) – (Kee-moh-chee) – Feeling
嬉しい (Ureshii) – (Oo-reh-shee) – Happy/Glad
悲しい (Kanashii) – (Kah-nah-shee) – Sad
怒る (Okoru) – (Oh-koh-roo) – To be angry
驚く (Odoroku) – (Oh-doh-roh-koo) – To be surprised
怖い (Kowai) – (Koh-wah-ee) – Scary/Afraid
心配 (Shinpai) – (Sheen-pah-ee) – Worry
安心 (Anshin) – (Ahn-sheen) – Relief
恥ずかしい (Hazukashii) – (Hah-zoo-kah-shee) – Embarrassed
寂しい (Sabishii) – (Sah-bee-shee) – Lonely
楽しい (Tanoshii) – (Tah-noh-shee) – Fun/Enjoyable
退屈 (Taikutsu) – (Tah-ee-koo-tsoo) – Bored
興味 (Kyoumi) – (Kyoh-mee) – Interest
愛 (Ai) – (Ah-ee) – Love
好き (Suki) – (Soo-kee) – Like
嫌い (Kirai) – (Kee-rah-ee) – Dislike/Hate
希望 (Kibou) – (Kee-boh) – Hope
夢 (Yume) – (Yoo-meh) – Dream
幸せ (Shiawase) – (She-ah-wah-seh) – Happiness
ストレス (Sutoresu) – (Soo-toh-reh-soo) – Stress
リラックス (Rirakkusu) – (Ree-rahk-koo-soo) – Relax
感動 (Kandou) – (Kahn-doh) – Being moved/touched
満足 (Manzoku) – (Mahn-zoh-koo) – Satisfaction
不安 (Fuan) – (Foo-ahn) – Anxiety
平和 (Heiwa) – (Hey-wah) – Peace

Work and Study

Here are the key terms you’ll need for any school or office environment.

仕事 (Shigoto) – (Shee-go-toh) – Work/Job
会社 (Kaisha) – (Kah-ee-shah) – Company
学校 (Gakkou) – (Gahk-koh) – School
大学 (Daigaku) – (Dah-ee-gah-koo) – University
先生 (Sensei) – (Sen-say) – Teacher
学生 (Gakusei) – (Gah-koo-say) – Student
同僚 (Douryou) – (Doh-ryoh) – Colleague
上司 (Joushi) – (Joh-she) – Boss
部下 (Buka) – (Boo-kah) – Subordinate
会議 (Kaigi) – (Kah-ee-ghee) – Meeting
プロジェクト (Purojekuto) – (Poo-roh-jeck-toh) – Project
報告 (Houkoku) – (Hoh-koh-koo) – Report
宿題 (Shukudai) – (Shoo-koo-dah-ee) – Homework
試験 (Shiken) – (She-ken) – Exam/Test
成績 (Seiseki) – (Say-seh-kee) – Grades
給料 (Kyuuryou) – (Kyoo-ryoh) – Salary
休暇 (Kyuuka) – (Kyoo-kah) – Vacation
残業 (Zangyou) – (Zahn-gyoh) – Overtime
面接 (Mensetsu) – (Men-seh-tsoo) – Interview
履歴書 (Rirekisho) – (Ree-reh-kee-sho) – Resume
経験 (Keiken) – (Kay-ken) – Experience
技術 (Gijutsu) – (Ghee-joo-tsoo) – Technology/Skill
知識 (Chishiki) – (Chee-she-kee) – Knowledge
専門 (Senmon) – (Sen-mohn) – Specialty
成功 (Seikou) – (Say-koh) – Success
教室 (Kyoushitsu) – (Kyoh-sheet-soo) – Classroom
図書館 (Toshokan) – (Toh-sho-kahn) – Library
体育館 (Taiikukan) – (Tah-ee-koo-kahn) – Gymnasium
事務所 (Jimusho) – (Jee-moo-sho) – Office
会議室 (Kaigishitsu) – (Kah-ee-ghee-sheet-soo) – Meeting room
受付 (Uketsuke) – (Oo-keh-tskeh) – Reception desk
教科書 (Kyoukasho) – (Kyoh-kah-sho) – Textbook
辞書 (Jisho) – (Jee-sho) – Dictionary
ノート (Nooto) – (Noh-toh) – Notebook
鉛筆 (Enpitsu) – (En-peet-soo) – Pencil
ペン (Pen) – (Pen) – Pen
消しゴム (Keshigomu) – (Keh-shee-go-moo) – Eraser
宿題 (Shukudai) – (Shoo-koo-dah-ee) – Homework
授業 (Jugyou) – (Joo-gyoh) – Class, lesson
質問 (Shitsumon) – (Sheet-soo-mohn) – Question
休み時間 (Yasumi jikan) – (Yah-soo-mee jee-kahn) – Break time, recess
卒業 (Sotsugyou) – (Soh-tsoo-gyoh) – Graduation
出張 (Shucchou) – (Shoot-choh) – Business trip
給料 (Kyuuryou) – (Kyoo-ryoh) – Salary
名刺 (Meishi) – (May-shee) – Business card

Technology and Communication

Discuss everything from smartphones to email with this modern vocabulary list.

電話 (Denwa) – (Den-wah) – Telephone
携帯電話 (Keitai denwa) – (Kay-tah-ee den-wah) – Mobile phone
スマートフォン (Sumaatofon) – (Soo-mah-toh-fohn) – Smartphone
コンピューター (Konpyuutaa) – (Kohn-pyoo-tah) – Computer
インターネット (Intaanetto) – (Een-tah-net-toh) – Internet
メール (Meeru) – (Meh-roo) – Email
ウェブサイト (Webu saito) – (Weh-boo sah-ee-toh) – Website
アプリ (Apuri) – (Ah-poo-ree) – App
パスワード (Pasuwaado) – (Pah-soo-wah-doh) – Password
ダウンロード (Daunroodo) – (Dah-oon-roh-doh) – Download
アップロード (Appuroodo) – (Ahp-poo-roh-doh) – Upload
テレビ (Terebi) – (Teh-reh-bee) – Television
ラジオ (Rajio) – (Rah-jee-oh) – Radio
新聞 (Shinbun) – (Sheen-boon) – Newspaper
雑誌 (Zasshi) – (Zahs-shee) – Magazine
本 (Hon) – (Hohn) – Book
辞書 (Jisho) – (Jee-sho) – Dictionary
手紙 (Tegami) – (Teh-gah-mee) – Letter
住所 (Juusho) – (Joo-sho) – Address
電話番号 (Denwa bangou) – (Den-wah bahn-goh) – Phone number

Hobbies and Entertainment

Share your passions and interests with these words related to fun and leisure.

趣味 (Shumi) – (Shoo-mee) – Hobby
スポーツ (Supootsu) – (Soo-poh-tsoo) – Sports
音楽 (Ongaku) – (Ohn-gah-koo) – Music
映画 (Eiga) – (Ay-gah) – Movie
本 (Hon) – (Hohn) – Book
ゲーム (Geemu) – (Geh-moo) – Game
料理 (Ryouri) – (Ryoh-ree) – Cooking
写真 (Shashin) – (Shah-sheen) – Photography
絵 (E) – (Eh) – Picture/Painting
ダンス (Dansu) – (Dahn-soo) – Dance
歌 (Uta) – (Oo-tah) – Song
楽器 (Gakki) – (Gahk-kee) – Musical instrument
ピアノ (Piano) – (Pee-ah-no) – Piano
ギター (Gitaa) – (Ghee-tah) – Guitar
サッカー (Sakkaa) – (Sahk-kah) – Soccer
野球 (Yakyuu) – (Yah-kyoo) – Baseball
テニス (Tenisu) – (Teh-nee-soo) – Tennis
水泳 (Suiei) – (Soo-ee-ay) – Swimming
ジョギング (Jogingu) – (Joh-gheen-goo) – Jogging
ヨガ (Yoga) – (Yoh-gah) – Yoga
散歩 (Sanpo) – (Sahn-poh) – Walk/Stroll
旅行 (Ryokou) – (Ryo-koh) – Travel
読書 (Dokusho) – (Doh-koo-sho) – Reading
園芸 (Engei) – (En-gay) – Gardening
釣り (Tsuri) – (Tsoo-ree) – Fishing

Places and Locations

Learn the words for common places you’ll find in any Japanese city or town.

場所 (Basho) – (Bah-sho) – Place
国 (Kuni) – (Koo-nee) – Country
都市 (Toshi) – (Toh-shee) – City
町 (Machi) – (Mah-chee) – Town
村 (Mura) – (Moo-rah) – Village
家 (Ie) – (Ee-eh) – House/Home
アパート (Apaato) – (Ah-pah-toh) – Apartment
マンション (Manshon) – (Mahn-shon) – Condominium
学校 (Gakkou) – (Gahk-koh) – School
病院 (Byouin) – (Byoh-een) – Hospital
銀行 (Ginkou) – (Geen-koh) – Bank
郵便局 (Yuubinkyoku) – (Yoo-been-kyoh-koo) – Post office
図書館 (Toshokan) – (Toh-sho-kahn) – Library
美術館 (Bijutsukan) – (Bee-joot-soo-kahn) – Art museum
博物館 (Hakubutsukan) – (Hah-koo-boot-soo-kahn) – Museum
公園 (Kouen) – (Koh-en) – Park
レストラン (Resutoran) – (Reh-soo-toh-rahn) – Restaurant
喫茶店 (Kissaten) – (Kees-sah-ten) – Coffee shop
映画館 (Eigakan) – (Ay-gah-kahn) – Movie theater
体育館 (Taiikukan) – (Tah-ee-koo-kahn) – Gymnasium
プール (Puuru) – (Poo-roo) – Swimming pool
海 (Umi) – (Oo-mee) – Sea/Ocean
山 (Yama) – (Yah-mah) – Mountain
川 (Kawa) – (Kah-wah) – River
湖 (Mizuumi) – (Mee-zoo-mee) – Lake
森 (Mori) – (Moh-ree) – Forest
田舎 (Inaka) – (Ee-nah-kah) – Countryside
都会 (Tokai) – (Toh-kah-ee) – Urban area
北 (Kita) – (Kee-tah) – North
南 (Minami) – (Mee-nah-mee) – South

Clothing and Accessories

Talk about what you’re wearing or what you want to buy with this stylish vocabulary.

服 (Fuku) – (Foo-koo) – Clothes
シャツ (Shatsu) – (Shah-tsoo) – Shirt
Tシャツ (Tiishatsu) – (Tee-shah-tsoo) – T-shirt
ズボン (Zubon) – (Zoo-bohn) – Pants
ジーンズ (Jiinzu) – (Jeen-zoo) – Jeans
スカート (Sukaato) – (Soo-kah-toh) – Skirt
ワンピース (Wanpiisu) – (Wahn-pee-soo) – Dress
ジャケット (Jaketto) – (Jah-ket-toh) – Jacket
コート (Kooto) – (Koh-toh) – Coat
セーター (Seetaa) – (Seh-tah) – Sweater
靴 (Kutsu) – (Koot-soo) – Shoes
靴下 (Kutsushita) – (Koot-soo-she-tah) – Socks
帽子 (Boushi) – (Boh-she) – Hat
眼鏡 (Megane) – (Meh-gah-neh) – Glasses
時計 (Tokei) – (Toh-kay) – Watch
指輪 (Yubiwa) – (Yoo-bee-wah) – Ring
ネックレス (Nekkuresu) – (Nek-koo-reh-soo) – Necklace
バッグ (Baggu) – (Bahg-goo) – Bag
財布 (Saifu) – (Sah-ee-foo) – Wallet
ベルト (Beruto) – (Beh-roo-toh) – Belt
下着 (Shitagi) – (Shee-tah-ghee) – Underwear
水着 (Mizugi) – (Mee-zoo-ghee) – Swimsuit
パジャマ (Pajama) – (Pah-jah-mah) – Pajamas
手袋 (Tebukuro) – (Teh-boo-koo-roh) – Gloves
マフラー (Mafuraa) – (Mah-foo-rah) – Scarf
アクセサリー (Akusesarii) – (Ah-koo-seh-sah-ree) – Accessories
イヤリング (Iyaringu) – (Ee-yah-reen-goo) – Earrings
ブレスレット (Buresuretto) – (Boo-reh-soo-ret-toh) – Bracelet
香水 (Kousui) – (Koh-soo-ee) – Perfume
ネクタイ (Nekutai) – (Neh-koo-tah-ee) – Necktie
スーツ (Suutsu) – (Soo-tsoo) – Suit
着物 (Kimono) – (Kee-moh-no) – Kimono
浴衣 (Yukata) – (Yoo-kah-tah) – Yukata (summer kimono)
帯 (Obi) – (Oh-bee) – Sash for kimono
サンダル (Sandaru) – (Sahn-dah-roo) – Sandals

Animals

From pets to wild animals, here’s how to name members of the animal kingdom.

動物 (Doubutsu) – (Doh-boot-soo) – Animal
犬 (Inu) – (Ee-noo) – Dog
猫 (Neko) – (Neh-ko) – Cat
鳥 (Tori) – (Toh-ree) – Bird
魚 (Sakana) – (Sah-kah-nah) – Fish
馬 (Uma) – (Oo-mah) – Horse
牛 (Ushi) – (Oo-shee) – Cow
豚 (Buta) – (Boo-tah) – Pig
羊 (Hitsuji) – (Hee-tsoo-jee) – Sheep
鶏 (Niwatori) – (Nee-wah-toh-ree) – Chicken
象 (Zou) – (Zoh) – Elephant
ライオン (Raion) – (Rah-ee-ohn) – Lion
虎 (Tora) – (Toh-rah) – Tiger
熊 (Kuma) – (Koo-mah) – Bear
猿 (Saru) – (Sah-roo) – Monkey

Daily Activities

Describe your daily routine from the moment you wake up to when you go to bed.

起きる (Okiru) – (Oh-kee-roo) – To wake up
顔を洗う (Kao o arau) – (Kah-oh oh ah-rah-oo) – To wash face
歯を磨く (Ha o migaku) – (Hah oh mee-gah-koo) – To brush teeth
朝食 (Choushoku) – (Cho-sho-koo) – Breakfast
昼食 (Chuushoku) – (Choo-sho-koo) – Lunch
夕食 (Yuushoku) – (Yoo-sho-koo) – Dinner
シャワー (Shawaa) – (Sha-wah) – Shower
お風呂 (Ofuro) – (Oh-foo-roh) – Bath
着る (Kiru) – (Kee-roo) – To wear/put on
脱ぐ (Nugu) – (Noo-goo) – To take off
掃除 (Souji) – (Soh-jee) – Cleaning
洗濯 (Sentaku) – (Sen-tah-koo) – Laundry
買い物 (Kaimono) – (Kah-ee-moh-no) – Shopping
宿題 (Shukudai) – (Shoo-koo-dah-ee) – Homework
テレビを見る (Terebi o miru) – (Teh-reh-bee oh mee-roo) – To watch TV
電話をかける (Denwa o kakeru) – (Den-wah oh kah-keh-roo) – To make a phone call
友達と会う (Tomodachi to au) – (Toh-moh-dah-chee toh ah-oo) – To meet friends
運動 (Undou) – (Oon-doh) – Exercise
就寝 (Shuushin) – (Shoo-sheen) – Going to bed
夢を見る (Yume o miru) – (Yoo-meh oh mee-roo) – To dream

Agreement and Disagreement

Here’s how to show you’re on the same page or that you see things differently.

同意 (Doui) – (Doh-ee) – Agreement
反対 (Hantai) – (Hahn-tah-ee) – Opposition
そうですね (Sou desu ne) – (Soh dess neh) – That’s right
その通り (Sono toori) – (Soh-no toh-ree) – Exactly
確かに (Tashika ni) – (Tah-she-kah nee) – Certainly
絶対に (Zettai ni) – (Zet-tah-ee nee) – Absolutely
多分 (Tabun) – (Tah-boon) – Probably
違います (Chigaimasu) – (Chee-gah-ee-mahs) – That’s wrong
そうじゃない (Sou ja nai) – (Soh jah nah-ee) – That’s not right
無理 (Muri) – (Moo-ree) – Impossible
賛成 (Sansei) – (Sahn-say) – I agree
反対 (Hantai) – (Hahn-tah-ee) – I disagree
どうかな (Douka na) – (Doh-kah nah) – I wonder
分からない (Wakaranai) – (Wah-kah-rah-nah-ee) – I don’t know
考えます (Kangaemasu) – (Kahn-gah-eh-mahs) – I’ll think about it

Emergency Situations

These are the crucial phrases you hope you never need but should absolutely know.

緊急事態 (Kinkyuu jitai) – (Keen-kyoo jee-tah-ee) – Emergency
助けて (Tasukete) – (Tah-soo-keh-teh) – Help!
危険 (Kiken) – (Kee-ken) – Danger
火事 (Kaji) – (Kah-jee) – Fire
地震 (Jishin) – (Jee-sheen) – Earthquake
津波 (Tsunami) – (Tsoo-nah-mee) – Tsunami
警察 (Keisatsu) – (Kay-saht-soo) – Police
消防署 (Shoubousho) – (Sho-boh-sho) – Fire department
救急車 (Kyuukyuusha) – (Kyoo-kyoo-shah) – Ambulance
病院 (Byouin) – (Byoh-een) – Hospital
事故 (Jiko) – (Jee-ko) – Accident
怪我 (Kega) – (Keh-gah) – Injury
盗難 (Tounan) – (Toh-nahn) – Theft
紛失 (Funshitsu) – (Foon-she-tsoo) – Lost
安全 (Anzen) – (Ahn-zen) – Safety

Useful Connectors and Particles

These small words are the glue that will hold your Japanese sentences together.

と (To) – (Toh) – And/With
が (Ga) – (Gah) – Subject particle
を (O/Wo) – (Oh/Woh) – Object particle
に (Ni) – (Nee) – Direction/Time particle
で (De) – (Deh) – Location/Method particle
から (Kara) – (Kah-rah) – From/Because
まで (Made) – (Mah-deh) – Until/To
の (No) – (No) – Possessive particle
は (Wa) – (Wah) – Topic particle
も (Mo) – (Moh) – Also/Too
だけ (Dake) – (Dah-keh) – Only
しか (Shika) – (She-kah) – Only (with negative)
または (Mata wa) – (Mah-tah wah) – Or
そして (Soshite) – (Soh-she-teh) – And then
でも (Demo) – (Deh-moh) – But/However
だから (Dakara) – (Dah-kah-rah) – Therefore
なので (Nanode) – (Nah-no-deh) – Because
けれど (Keredo) – (Keh-reh-doh) – Although
もし (Moshi) – (Moh-shee) – If
たとえば (Tatoeba) – (Tah-toh-eh-bah) – For example
つまり (Tsumari) – (Tsoo-mah-ree) – In other words
実は (Jitsu wa) – (Jeet-soo wah) – Actually
特に (Toku ni) – (Toh-koo nee) – Especially
普通 (Futsuu) – (Foot-soo) – Usually
最後に (Saigo ni) – (Sah-ee-go nee) – Finally

Useful Expressions for Conversation & Socializing

Sprinkle these natural-sounding expressions into your speech to sound more like a native speaker.

お名前は何ですか？ (Onamae wa nan desu ka?) – (Oh-nah-mah-eh wah nahn dess kah?) – What is your name?
どこから来ましたか？ (Doko kara kimashita ka?) – (Doh-koh kah-rah kee-mah-she-tah kah?) – Where are you from?
趣味は何ですか？ (Shumi wa nan desu ka?) – (Shoo-mee wah nahn dess kah?) – What are your hobbies?
仕事は何をしていますか？ (Shigoto wa nani o shiteimasu ka?) – (Shee-go-toh wah nah-nee oh she-tay-ee-mahs kah?) – What do you do for work?
日本は初めてですか？ (Nihon wa hajimete desu ka?) – (Nee-hohn wah hah-jee-meh-teh dess kah?) – Is this your first time in Japan?
どのくらい日本にいますか？ (Dono kurai nihon ni imasu ka?) – (Doh-no koo-rah-ee nee-hohn nee ee-mahs kah?) – How long will you be in Japan?
日本語が上手ですね (Nihongo ga jouzu desu ne) – (Nee-hohn-go gah joh-zoo dess neh) – Your Japanese is very good.
いいえ、まだまだです (Iie, madamada desu) – (Ee-eh, mah-dah-mah-dah dess) – No, I still have a long way to go.
また会いましょう (Mata aimashou) – (Mah-tah ah-ee-mah-sho) – Let’s meet again.
連絡先を交換しませんか？ (Renrakusaki o koukan shimasen ka?) – (Ren-rah-koo-sah-kee oh koh-kahn she-mah-sen kah?) – Shall we exchange contact information?
楽しかったです (Tanoshikatta desu) – (Tah-no-she-kaht-tah dess) – I had fun.
こちらこそ (Kochira koso) – (Koh-chee-rah koh-soh) – Likewise / The pleasure is mine.
ごめんなさい、よく聞こえませんでした (Gomennasai, yoku kikoemasen deshita) – (Go-men-nah-sah-ee, yoh-koo kee-koh-eh-mah-sen desh-tah) – I’m sorry, I couldn’t hear you well.
どう思いますか？ (Dou omoimasu ka?) – (Doh oh-moy-mahs kah?) – What do you think?
賛成です (Sansei desu) – (Sahn-say dess) – I agree.
反対です (Hantai desu) – (Hahn-tah-ee dess) – I disagree.
ちょっと意味が分かりません (Chotto imi ga wakarimasen) – (Choht-toh ee-mee gah wah-kah-ree-mah-sen) – I don’t quite understand the meaning.
例えば？ (Tatoeba?) – (Tah-toh-eh-bah?) – For example?
なるほど (Naruhodo) – (Nah-roo-hoh-doh) – I see / That makes sense.
そうなんですか (Sou nan desu ka) – (Soh nahn dess kah) – Is that so? / Oh, really?
ちょっと (Chotto) – (Choht-toh) – A little/Wait a minute
もちろん (Mochiron) – (Moh-chee-rohn) – Of course
本当に (Hontou ni) – (Hohn-toh nee) – Really
確かに (Tashika ni) – (Tah-she-kah nee) – Certainly
実際に (Jissai ni) – (Jees-sah-ee nee) – Actually
普通に (Futsuu ni) – (Foot-soo nee) – Normally
大体 (Daitai) – (Dah-ee-tah-ee) – Roughly/About
全然 (Zenzen) – (Zen-zen) – Not at all
結構 (Kekkou) – (Kek-koh) – Quite/Enough
まあまあ (Maa maa) – (Mah mah) – So-so
やっぱり (Yappari) – (Yahp-pah-ree) – As expected
さっき (Sakki) – (Sahk-kee) – A while ago
今度 (Kondo) – (Kohn-doh) – Next time
一緒に (Issho ni) – (Eesh-sho nee) – Together
一人で (Hitori de) – (Hee-toh-ree deh) – Alone
みんなで (Minna de) – (Meen-nah deh) – Everyone together
初めて (Hajimete) – (Hah-jee-meh-teh) – For the first time
久しぶり (Hisashiburi) – (Hee-sah-she-boo-ree) – Long time no see
お疲れ様 (Otsukaresama) – (Oh-tsoo-kah-reh-sah-mah) – Good work/Thanks for your hard work
頑張って (Ganbatte) – (Gahn-baht-teh) – Good luck/Do your best
気をつけて (Ki o tsukete) – (Kee oh tsoo-keh-teh) – Be careful
いらっしゃいませ (Irasshaimase) – (Ee-rahsh-shah-ee-mah-seh) – Welcome (to a store)
失礼します (Shitsurei shimasu) – (Sheet-soo-ray she-mahs) – Excuse me (when entering or leaving)
お先に (Osaki ni) – (Oh-sah-kee nee) – Excuse me for leaving first
ただいま (Tadaima) – (Tah-dah-ee-mah) – I’m home
おかえりなさい (Okaeri nasai) – (Oh-kah-eh-ree nah-sah-ee) – Welcome home
いってきます (Itte kimasu) – (Eet-teh kee-mahs) – I’m leaving
いってらっしゃい (Itterasshai) – (Eet-teh-rahsh-shah-ee) – See you later (to someone leaving)
乾杯 (Kanpai) – (Kahn-pah-ee) – Cheers!
おめでとう (Omedetou) – (Oh-meh-deh-toh) – Congratulations
お誕生日おめでとう (Otanjoubi omedetou) – (Oh-tahn-joh-bee oh-meh-deh-toh) – Happy birthday
新年おめでとう (Shinnen omedetou) – (Sheen-nen oh-meh-deh-toh) – Happy New Year
お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita) – (Oh-tsoo-kah-reh-sah-mah desh-tah) – Thank you for your hard work (past)
ご苦労様 (Gokurousama) – (Go-koo-roh-sah-mah) – Thank you for your trouble (used by superiors)
仕方がない (Shikata ga nai) – (She-kah-tah gah nah-ee) – It can’t be helped
大変ですね (Taihen desu ne) – (Tah-ee-hen dess neh) – That’s tough, isn’t it?
よかった (Yokatta) – (Yoh-kaht-tah) – That was good/I’m glad

Question Words & Counters

Master the art of asking specific questions and correctly counting different types of objects.

どちら (Dochira) – (Doh-chee-rah) – Which (polite, of two)
どっち (Docchi) – (Doh-chee) – Which (casual, of two)
どれ (Dore) – (Doh-reh) – Which (of three or more)
どんな (Donna) – (Dohn-nah) – What kind of…?
いくつ (Ikutsu) – (Ee-koot-soo) – How many? / How old?
どのくらい (Dono kurai) – (Doh-no koo-rah-ee) – How much? / How long?
～つ (～tsu) – (tsoo) – General counter for items (hitotsu, futatsu…)
～人 (～nin) – (neen) – Counter for people
～匹 (～hiki) – (hee-kee) – Counter for small animals
～本 (～hon) – (hohn) – Counter for long, cylindrical objects
～枚 (～mai) – (mah-ee) – Counter for flat, thin objects
～冊 (～satsu) – (saht-soo) – Counter for bound volumes (books)
～個 (～ko) – (koh) – Counter for small, round objects
～回 (～kai) – (kah-ee) – Counter for times/occurrences
～階 (～kai) – (kah-ee) – Counter for floors of a building

Helpful Phrases for Dining Out

From ordering to paying the bill, these phrases will make your restaurant experience a breeze.

お腹が空きました (Onaka ga sukimashita) – (Oh-nah-kah gah skee-mah-shee-tah) – I’m hungry.
喉が渇きました (Nodo ga kawakimashita) – (Noh-doh gah kah-wah-kee-mah-she-tah) – I’m thirsty.
メニューをください (Menyuu o kudasai) – (Meh-nyoo oh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Please give me the menu.
注文をお願いします (Chuumon o onegaishimasu) – (Choo-mohn oh oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – I’d like to order.
おすすめは何ですか？ (Osusume wa nan desu ka?) – (Oh-soo-soo-meh wah nahn dess kah?) – What do you recommend?
これをお願いします (Kore o onegaishimasu) – (Koh-reh oh oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – I’ll have this one, please.
お水をお願いします (Omizu o onegaishimasu) – (Oh-mee-zoo oh oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – Water, please.
お会計をお願いします (Okaikei o onegaishimasu) – (Oh-kah-ee-kay oh oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – The check, please.
別々でお願いします (Betsu betsu de onegaishimasu) – (Bet-soo bet-soo deh oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mahs) – We’d like to pay separately.
持ち帰りで (Mochikaeri de) – (Moh-chee-kah-eh-ree deh) – For takeout.
店内で (Tennai de) – (Ten-nah-ee deh) – For here / To eat in.
アレルギーがあります (Arerugii ga arimasu) – (Ah-reh-roo-ghee gah ah-ree-mahs) – I have an allergy.
予約をしています (Yoyaku o shiteimasu) – (Yoh-yah-koo oh she-tay-ee-mahs) – I have a reservation.
喫煙席ですか？ (Kitsuen seki desu ka?) – (Keet-soo-en seh-kee dess kah?) – Is it a smoking seat?
禁煙席ですか？ (Kin’en seki desu ka?) – (Keen-en seh-kee dess kah?) – Is it a non-smoking seat?
もう少し考えます (Mou sukoshi kangaemasu) – (Moh skoh-shee kahn-gah-eh-mahs) – I’ll think about it a little more.
美味しかったです (Oishikatta desu) – (Oy-she-kaht-tah dess) – That was delicious.

Helpful Phrases for Shopping

Use these sentences to find what you want and handle any shopping situation with ease.

見ているだけです (Miteiru dake desu) – (Mee-teh-ee-roo dah-keh dess) – I’m just looking.
試着できますか？ (Shichaku dekimasu ka?) – (Shee-chah-koo deh-kee-mahs kah?) – Can I try this on?
これは何ですか？ (Kore wa nan desu ka?) – (Koh-reh wah nahn dess kah?) – What is this?
他の色はありますか？ (Hoka no iro wa arimasu ka?) – (Hoh-kah no ee-ro wah ah-ree-mahs kah?) – Do you have this in other colors?
大きいサイズはありますか？ (Ookii saizu wa arimasu ka?) – (Oh-kee sah-ee-zoo wah ah-ree-mahs kah?) – Do you have a larger size?
小さいサイズはありますか？ (Chiisai saizu wa arimasu ka?) – (Chee-sah-ee sah-ee-zoo wah ah-ree-mahs kah?) – Do you have a smaller size?
これをください (Kore o kudasai) – (Koh-reh oh koo-dah-sah-ee) – I’ll take this.
カードで払えますか？ (Kaado de haraemasu ka?) – (Kah-doh deh hah-rah-eh-mahs kah?) – Can I pay by card?
袋は要りません (Fukuro wa irimasen) – (Foo-koo-roh wah ee-ree-mah-sen) – I don’t need a bag.
プレゼント用です (Purezento you desu) – (Poo-reh-zen-toh yoh dess) – It’s for a gift.
免税できますか？ (Menzei dekimasu ka?) – (Men-zay deh-kee-mahs kah?) – Can I get this tax-free?
返品できますか？ (Henpin dekimasu ka?) – (Hen-peen deh-kee-mahs kah?) – Can I return this?
もう少し安いものはありますか？ (Mou sukoshi yasui mono wa arimasu ka?) – (Moh skoh-shee yah-soo-ee moh-no wah ah-ree-mahs kah?) – Do you have anything cheaper?
合計はいくらですか？ (Goukei wa ikura desu ka?) – (Goh-kay wah ee-koo-rah dess kah?) – What is the total?
領収書をください (Ryuushuusho o kudasai) – (Ryoo-shoo-sho oh koo-dah-sah-ee) – Can I have a receipt?

Casual Slang & Shortenings

Speak like a local with these slang words and phrases.

マジで (Maji de) – (Mah-jee deh) – Seriously? / For real?
ヤバイ (Yabai) – (Yah-bah-ee) – Awesome / Awful / Insane (very context-dependent)
ウケる (Ukeru) – (Oo-keh-roo) – That’s hilarious.
キモい (Kimoi) – (Kee-moy) – Gross (short for 気持ち悪い – kimochi warui)
ムズい (Muzui) – (Moo-zoo-ee) – Difficult (short for 難しい – muzukashii)
微妙 (Bimyou) – (Bee-myoh) – Iffy, questionable, “meh”
とりあえず (Toriaezu) – (Toh-ree-ah-eh-zoo) – For now, for the time being
なんか (Nanka) – (Nahn-kah) – Like, kind of (filler word)
っていうか (Tte iu ka) – (Tteh yoo kah) – Or rather, I mean
なるほど (Naruhodo) – (Nah-roo-hoh-doh) – I see
そっか (Sokka) – (Sohk-kah) – I see (casual version of そうですか – sou desu ka)
ちがう (Chigau) – (Chee-gah-oo) – No / That’s wrong (often used alone)
うそ！ (Uso!) – (Oo-soh!) – No way! / You’re lying!
あ、そう (A, sou) – (Ah, soh) – Oh, right. (can sound dismissive)
ドタキャン (Dotakyan) – (Doh-tah-kyahn) – Last-minute cancellation
コンビニ (Konbini) – (Kohn-bee-nee) – Convenience store
スマホ (Sumaho) – (Soo-mah-hoh) – Smartphone
アニメ (Anime) – (Ah-nee-meh) – Animation
イケメン (Ikemen) – (Ee-keh-men) – Handsome man
超 (Chou) – (Choh) – Super, very (e.g., 超美味しい – chou oishii)

Miscellaneous Useful Words

To round out your vocabulary, here is a final collection of miscellaneous words you’ll be glad you learned.

番号 (Bangou) – (Bahn-goh) – Number
名前 (Namae) – (Nah-mah-eh) – Name
住所 (Juusho) – (Joo-sho) – Address
地図 (Chizu) – (Chee-zoo) – Map
写真 (Shashin) – (Shah-sheen) – Photograph
音楽 (Ongaku) – (Ohn-gah-koo) – Music
映画 (Eiga) – (Ay-gah) – Movie
新聞 (Shinbun) – (Sheen-boon) – Newspaper
雑誌 (Zasshi) – (Zahs-shee) – Magazine
趣味 (Shumi) – (Shoo-mee) – Hobby
スポーツ (Supootsu) – (Soo-poh-tsoo) – Sports
天気 (Tenki) – (Ten-kee) – Weather
季節 (Kisetsu) – (Kee-set-soo) – Season
春 (Haru) – (Hah-roo) – Spring
夏 (Natsu) – (Naht-soo) – Summer
秋 (Aki) – (Ah-kee) – Autumn
冬 (Fuyu) – (Foo-yoo) – Winter
空気 (Kuuki) – (Koo-kee) – Air
予約 (Yoyaku) – (Yoh-yah-koo) – Reservation
荷物 (Nimotsu) – (Nee-moh-tsoo) – Luggage
原因 (Gen’in) – (Geh-een) – Cause
結果 (Kekka) – (Kek-kah) – Result
関係 (Kankei) – (Kahn-kay) – Relationship, connection
普通 (Futsuu) – (Foot-soo) – Normal, ordinary; local train
急行 (Kyuukou) – (Kyoo-koh) – Express train
特急 (Tokkyuu) – (Tohk-kyoo) – Limited express train
新幹線 (Shinkansen) – (Sheen-kahn-sen) – Bullet train
自由席 (Jiyuu seki) – (Jee-yoo seh-kee) – Non-reserved seat
指定席 (Shitei seki) – (Shee-tay seh-kee) – Reserved seat
乗り換える (Norikaeru) – (Noh-ree-kah-eh-roo) – To transfer (trains)
降りる (Oriru) – (Oh-ree-roo) – To get off
乗る (Noru) – (Noh-roo) – To get on, to ride
出口 (Deguchi) – (Deh-goo-chee) – Exit
入り口 (Iriguchi) – (Ee-ree-goo-chee) – Entrance
忘れ物 (Wasuremono) – (Wah-soo-reh-moh-no) – Lost item
落とし物 (Otoshimono) – (Oh-toh-shee-moh-no) – Dropped item, lost property
警察 (Keisatsu) – (Kay-saht-soo) – Police
泥棒 (Dorobou) – (Doh-roh-boh) – Thief
スリ (Suri) – (Soo-ree) – Pickpocket
火事 (Kaji) – (Kah-jee) – Fire
地震 (Jishin) – (Jee-sheen) – Earthquake
津波 (Tsunami) – (Tsoo-nah-mee) – Tsunami
安全 (Anzen) – (Ahn-zen) – Safe, safety
危険 (Kiken) – (Kee-ken) – Dangerous, danger
注意 (Chuui) – (Choo-ee) – Caution, warning
禁止 (Kinshi) – (Keen-shee) – Prohibited, forbidden
無料 (Muryou) – (Moo-ryoh) – Free of charge
有料 (Yuuryou) – (Yoo-ryoh) – Toll, fee required
営業中 (Eigyouchuu) – (Ay-gyoh-choo) – Open for business
準備中 (Junbichuu) – (Joon-bee-choo) – In preparation (not open yet)
割引 (Waribiki) – (Wah-ree-bee-kee) – Discount
半額 (Hangaku) – (Hahn-gah-koo) – Half price
最後 (Saigo) – (Sah-ee-go) – Last
最初 (Saisho) – (Sah-ee-sho) – First
真ん中 (Mannaka) – (Mahn-nah-kah) – Center, middle
国内 (Kokunai) – (Koh-koo-nah-ee) – Domestic
海外 (Kaigai) – (Kah-ee-gah-ee) – Overseas
国際 (Kokusai) – (Koh-koo-sah-ee) – International
簡単 (Kantan) – (Kahn-tahn) – Simple, easy
複雑 (Fukuzatsu) – (Foo-koo-zaht-soo) – Complicated
自由 (Jiyuu) – (Jee-yoo) – Freedom
意見 (Iken) – (Ee-ken) – Opinion
将来 (Shourai) – (Shoh-rah-ee) – Future
過去 (Kako) – (Kah-koh) – Past
現在 (Genzai) – (Gen-zah-ee) – Present

Tips for Learning Japenese from Language Experts

You have a powerful list of 1,000 essential Japanese words and phrases. But what’s the fastest way to get them from the page into your brain and out of your mouth in a real conversation? Here are the best tips to accelerate your journey to conversational fluency.

Use a Spaced Repetition System (SRS)

This is the single most effective way to memorize vocabulary. SRS is like smart flashcards that show you a word right before you’re about to forget it. Instead of cramming, you learn efficiently. Create your own digital flashcard decks with this list.

Recommended Apps: Anki (highly customizable), WaniKani (for kanji and vocabulary), or Memrise.

Focus on Pronunciation from Day One

Don’t just read the words; say them out loud! Use the provided pronunciations as a guide. Incorrect pronunciation habits are hard to break later. Listen to native speakers on sites like Forvo or use Google Translate’s audio feature to hear the words, then mimic them.

Learn in Thematic Batches

Don’t try to learn all 1,000 words randomly. The list is already organized into themes for a reason! Focus on one category at a time. Master the “Essential Greetings” and “Basic Questions” first. This gives you a quick win, allowing you to have simple, real-world interactions almost immediately.

Context is King: Make Simple Sentences

A word learned in isolation is easily forgotten. As you learn a new word, try to build a simple phrase or sentence with words you already know.

Learn 猫 (neko) – cat.
Learn 大きい (ookii) – big.
Combine them: 大きい猫 (ookii neko) – a big cat.
Add a verb you know: 大きい猫を見る (ookii neko o miru) – I see a big cat.

Practice “Shadowing”

Shadowing is a powerful technique where you listen to a native speaker and repeat what they say in real-time, just a split second behind them. This dramatically improves your pronunciation, rhythm, and the speed at which you can recall and produce phrases. Find simple Japanese dialogues or podcasts for beginners to practice with.

Make it a Daily Habit

Consistency is more important than intensity. A focused 20-minute study session every day is far more effective than a 3-hour marathon once a week. Use “dead time” in your day—like commuting or waiting in line—to review your flashcards.

Use It or Lose It

The final step is to activate your knowledge. You need to use these words in actual conversation.

Find a Language Partner: Use apps like HelloTalk or Tandem to find native Japanese speakers who want to learn English.
Talk to Yourself: Narrate your daily activities in simple Japanese. “I am drinking coffee” (コーヒーを飲んでいます – koohii o nondeimasu).
Engage with Media: Watch Japanese shows for children or anime you’ve already seen. Try to pick out the words and phrases you know.

By combining these techniques, you’ll build a strong foundation, retain what you learn, and gain the confidence to start speaking Japanese faster than you ever thought possible.

頑張って (Ganbatte) – Do your best!