🇯🇵Grammar and Syntax of the Japanese language🇯🇵

Have you taken the JLPT?
JLPT stands for Japanese Language Proficiency Test. It is a standardized test designed to evaluate and certify the Japanese language proficiency of non-native speakers. The test assesses language proficiency in four areas: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. JLPT is held twice a year, in July and December, and is administered by the Japan Foundation and Japan Educational Exchanges and Services. JLPT has five levels, from N1 (the most advanced) to N5 (the most basic), with N4 being an intermediate level. Candidates can take the test at authorized test centres in Japan and in many other countries around the world. JLPT is widely recognized by universities, employers, and immigration authorities as evidence of Japanese language proficiency.

5 common difficulties that candidates may face when taking the JLPT

1) Time management

The JLPT is a timed test, and candidates have a limited amount of time to complete each section. Managing time effectively can be a challenge, especially for those who are not used to working under time pressure.

2) Vocabulary and Kanji

Japanese has many kanji characters, and candidates must have a solid knowledge of kanji and vocabulary to perform well on the JLPT. Memorizing and recalling such a vast amount of information can be challenging.

3) Grammar and syntax

Japanese grammar and syntax are quite different from English, and candidates may struggle with the structure and nuances of the language. Additionally, the JLPT tests grammar in context, which can be more challenging than simply memorizing grammar rules.

4) Listening comprehension

The JLPT tests listening comprehension, which requires candidates to listen to spoken Japanese and understand the meaning. This can be difficult for those who are not used to listening to Japanese or are not familiar with spoken Japanese.

5) Test Anxiety

Finally, test anxiety can be a challenge for many candidates. The pressure of performing well on the JLPT can be overwhelming, and it can be not easy to stay calm and focused during the test.

Features of grammar and syntax of the Japanese language

1. Subject-object-verb (SOV) word order: Japanese has an SOV word order, which means that the subject usually comes at the beginning of the sentence, followed by the object, and finally the verb.
2. Particles: Japanese uses particles to indicate the function of words in a sentence. For example, the particle “は” (wa) is used to mark the topic of a sentence, and the particle “を” (o) is used to mark the direct object.
3. Verb tense and aspect: Japanese has two tenses, past and non-past, and various aspects: perfective, imperfective, progressive, and habitual.
4. Politeness levels: Japanese has several levels of politeness, which are indicated by different verb forms and sentence structures. Politeness is an important aspect of Japanese culture, and it is important to use the appropriate level of politeness depending on the situation and the person you are speaking to.
5. Kanji characters: Japanese uses a combination of three writing systems: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. Kanji characters are Chinese characters that have been adapted to the Japanese language, and they are used to represent nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
6. Particles: Japanese has a large number of particles that are used to modify the meaning of words in a sentence. For example, the particle “と” (to) is used to indicate “and” between two nouns, and the particle “から” (kara) is used to indicate “from” or “because.”

Overall, the grammar and syntax of Japanese can be quite different from that of other languages, but it has a logical and consistent structure that can be learned with practice and study.

5 effective ways to study the grammar and syntax of the Japanese language

As mentioned above, the Japanese language looks very complicated to learn by yourself. However, it is not impossible!
Please check the following ways to study the grammar and syntax of the Japanese language and start with the one you feel more comfortable with.

1) Textbooks

Using a Japanese language textbook is a structured way to learn grammar and syntax. Many textbooks provide clear explanations of grammar rules and offer practice exercises to reinforce learning.

2) Language apps

There are several language apps that offer grammar lessons and practice exercises, such as Duolingo, Memrise, and Lingodeer. These apps can be a fun and interactive way to learn and practice grammar.

↓Please check this article, too.

My Top Three Applications for Learning Japanese 🇯🇵

Summary of my top 3 applications that have been effective in helping me, a beginner, improve all aspects of my Nihongo.

ippo-jlpthub.com

2022.10.25

3) Online resources

There are many free online resources available to learn Japanese grammar, such as Tae Kim’s Guide to Japanese, JapanesePod101, IPPO and Imabi. These resources offer comprehensive explanations of grammar rules and practice exercises.

4) Language exchange

Finding a language exchange partner can be a great way to practice grammar and syntax in a real-life context. A language exchange partner can provide feedback and corrections and can help to reinforce grammar concepts through conversation.

5) Immersion

Immersing yourself in the Japanese language by watching Japanese movies and TV shows, listening to Japanese music, and reading Japanese books and manga can be a fun way to learn and reinforce grammar and syntax. Immersion can also help to improve overall fluency and understanding of the language.