Hello Good Morning Good Afternoon Good Evening Good Night Good Bye Thank you How are

you doing? I am hungry

KONNICHIWA OHAYOUGOZAIMAS KONNICHIWA KONBANWA OYASUMINASAI SAYOUNARA ARIGATOUGOZAIMAS GENKIDESKA? ONAKA GA SUKIMASHITA

English How do you do?

Romaji HAJIMEMASHITE

What is your name? ONAMAEWA? My name is Katsumi WATASHI WA KATSUMI TO IIMAS

I am fine. Thank you. GENKIDES

Wife Husband Son Daughter

TSUMA OTTO MUSUKO MUSUME

Girl-friend / Boy-friend KOIBITO Greeting to ask how are you along with the different ways to answer it:Question: Ogenki desu ka? How are you? (This question can be answered in three ways) Ans 1: Okage samade genki desu. With gods grace i am fine, thank you. Ans 2: Hai, mama desu. Yes, I am so-so. Ans 3: Hai genki desu. Yes I am fine Japanese Vocabulary related to Calendar Month Week Month Gatsu/ Gestu January Youbi Ichigatsu February Shyuu Nigatsu March Nichiyoubi Sangatsu April Getsuyoubi Shigatsu May Kaiyoubi Gogatsu June Suiyoubi Rokugatsu July Mokuyoubi Nanagatsu/ August Kinyoubi Shichigatsu September Doyoubi Hachigatsu October Kugatsu November Jyugatsu December Jyuichigatsu Jyunigatsu Vocabulary for Colors Iro Color Akai Red Aoi Blue Shiroi White Kuroi Black Kiiroi Yellow Chyairo Brown Vocabulary related to family & Relations day of a week Week Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday haha-Okaasan-Mother Chichi-Otousan-Father Sobo-Obaasan-Grandmother Sofu-Ojiisan-Grandfather Imouto-Imoutosan-Younger Sister Otouto-Otoutosan-Younger Brother Ani-Oniisan-Elder Brother Ane-Oneesan-Elder Sister Musume-Musumesan-Duaghter Musuko-Musukosan-Son Oji-Ojisan-Uncle Oba-Obasan-Aunt Tsuma-Okusan-Wife Otto -Goshyujin-Husband

Vocabulary for Direction or Location Ue Up Shita Down Koko Here Soko There Asoko That over there Migi Right Hidari Left

Vocabulary for Food Ryori food Shyokuji Meal Gohan Cooked Rice/ Meal Asagohan Breakfast Hirugohan Lunch Bangohan Dinner Yasai Vegetable

Vocabulary related to Rooms Daidokoro Kitchen Ima Living room Shinshitsu Bedroom Heya Room Genkan Entrance Toire Bathroom Kabe Wall

Haiiro - Grey Daidaiiro Orange Midori Green Kimidori Light Green Mizuiro Light Blue Murasaki Purple Momoiro - Pink

Tonari Besides, Next to Mae Front Ushiro Behind Chikai Nearby Yoko Side Tooi Far Masuugu Straight Higashi East Nishi West Minami South Kita North Vocabulary related to Weather Tenki Climate Youhou Forecast Hare Sunny Kumori Cloudy Ondo Temperature Yuki Snow Ame Rain Kaminari Thunder Kiri Fog Kaze Wind Arashi Storm

Kudamono Fruits Toriniku Chicken Butaniku Pork Gyuniku Beef Gyunyu Milk Tabemono Eatables Nomimono Drinkables

Tenjou Ceiling Niwa Garden Yuka Floor Mado Window

Vocabulary related to Time Tokei Watch Ji Oclock/ Hour Jihan Half an Hour Jikan Time Duration Fun/Bun/Pun Minutes Gogo p.m Gozen a.m Asa Morning Hiru Afternoon Ban Evening Yoru Night Kesa Today Morning Ashita Tomorrow Kyou Today Kinou Yesterday Assatte Day after tomorrow Ototoi Day before yesterday

Vocabulary related to Vehicle Denshya Train Shinkansen Bullet Train Jitensha Bicycle Sanrinsha Trycycle Kuruma - Car Jidousha Car Takushi Taxi Ootobai Motorcycle Chikatetsu Subway Hikouki Airplane Fune Ship Kisha Steam Train Hansen Sailing Boat

Vocabulary related to famili & Relations Kodomo Child Ryoushin Parents Kazoku Family Kyoudai siblings Shinseki Relatives Itoko Cousin

Vocabulary for the seasons Shiki Four Seasons of Japan Haru Spring Natsu Summer Aki Autumn Fuyu Winter

Vocabulary for Body Parts Karada Body Me Eye Atama Head Mimi Ear Kami Hair Yubi Finger Kao Face Mayu Eyebrow Hitai Forehead Mabuta Eyelid Mastuge Eyelash Kuchi Mounth Hana Nose Ha Teeth Kuchibiru Lip Nodo Throat Shita Tongue Ago Jaw Kata Shoulder Ude Arm Kubi Neck Te Hand

Japanese Vocabulary for Dates Nichi Day/ Date Tsuitachi 1st Futsuka 2nd Mikka 3rd Yokka 4th Itsuka 5th Muika 6th Nanoka 7th Youka 8th Kokonoka 9th Tooka 10th Jyuuichinichi 11th Jyuuninichi 12th Jyuusannichi 13th Jyuuyokka 14th Jyuugonichi 15th Jyuurokunichi 16th Jyuushichinichi 17th Jyuuhachinichi 18th Jyuukunichi 19th Hatsuka 20th Nijyuuichinichi 21st

Japanese Vocabulary for Animals Doubutsu Animals Tori Birds Neko Cat Inu Dog Buta Pig Kaba Hippopotamus Nezumi Mouse Zou Elephant Hitsuji Sheep Kirin Giraffe Kuma Bear Kitsune Fox Raion Lion Ookami Wolf Saru Monkey Rakuda Camel Shika deer Risu Squirrel Tora Tiger Shimauma Zebra Ushi Cow Uma Horse

Vocabulary for Isha Doctor Sensei Teacher Kenchikuka Architect Enjinia Engineer Daiku Carpenter Geijutsuka Artist Kokku Chef Ginkouin Banker Shouboushi Fireman Noumin Farmer Jaanarisuto Journalist Kaishain Office Employee Ryoushi Fisherman Bengoshi Lawyer Koumuin Government Employee Kangofu Female Nurse Kyouju Professor Gaka Painter Seijika Politician Sarariman Salaried Employee Keikan Police man

Hiji - Elbow Tsume Nail Mune Chest Onaka Stomach Senaka Back Hiza Knee Ashikubi Anckle Ashi Foot, Leg Kakato Heel Tsumashi - Toe

Nijyuuninichi 22nd Nijyuusannichi 23rd Nijyuuyokka 24th Nijyuugonichi 25th Nijyuurokunichi 26th Nijyuushichinichi 27th Nijyuuhachinichi 28th Nijyuukunichi 29th Sanjyuunichi 30th Sanjyuuichinichi 31st

Usagi Rabbit Yagi goat Sakana Fish

Kagakusha Scientist Shashinka Photographer Gakusei Student Sakka Writer Tenin Store Clerk Misein Shopkeeper Hisho Secretary

Particles "wa" and "ga": "wa" particle indicates or shows the subject of a sentence. "ga" particle indicates the topic of a sentence. In the example, "I know where you live" (watashi wa anata ga doko ni sunde iru ka shitte imasu), "I" would be the subject while "you" would be the topic. Not all sentences have both a subject and topic and, in many cases, the subject is implied in Japanese (for example, the "I" (watashi wa) would be left out of this sentence because it is implied that since I am talking I am the one that knows where you live). Many Japanese books and teachers teach that "wa" and "ga" are same and it doesn't matter which you use when. Basically, "wa" is used when you specify or want to give importance to the subject. Whereas "ga" is used when, you are not talking about one particular thing. "Ga" particle has another use in Japanese grammar where it means "but". In addition, "ga" particle is used with a few words like "houshi, suki, kirai, jyouzu and heta".

Particle "to": "to" particle has 2 different meanings which are "And" & "With". "to" is used for connecting nouns. In the example, "Book and magazine are there" (soko ni hon to zasshi ga arimasu.), "to" is used as "and". In the next example, "I am going to Japan with my mother" (watashi wa haha to nihon e ikimasu), "to" is used as "with". Particle "mo": "mo" particle means 'also'. For example, "Mr. Ram is an Indian. Mr. Ali is also an Indian" (Ram san wa Indojin desu. Alisan mo Indojin desu.) Particle "wo" or "o": "o" particle indicates the direct object on which the action takes place. In the example, "I eat noodles." (watashi wa Ramen o tabemasu.), "Ramen" is the direct object which is indicated by the particle. Particle "ni": "ni" particle is used in many different ways, which are for showing the location of a thing or person; talking about exact time, day, date, month, year; showing the indirect object in other words indicates the receiver of the action; is used while telling the intension behind doing a particular object.

In the example, "there is an apple on the table" (tsukue no ue ni ringo ga arimase), "ue" which means on is a location indicated by the "ni" particle. In the example, "I wake up at 6 every morning" (watashi wa maiasa rokuji ni okimasu.), "rokuji" is the exact time indicated by "ni" particle. In the example, "The teacher teaches the students." (Sensei wa gakuseitachi ni oshiemasu.), "gakuseitachi" are the receivers of the action who are indicated by the "ni" particle. In the example, "I will go with my friend to watch a movie." (watashi wa tomodachi to eiga wo mini ikimasu.), the intension of going to watch a movie has been indicated by "ni" particle.

Particle "e": "e" particle shows the movement from one place to another. It shows the 'Destination' to which the movement is taking place. In the example, "I am going to school from home." (watashi wa uchi kara gakkou e ikimasu.), the destination "gakkou" is indicated by "e" particle. Particle "ka": "ka" particle of Japanese grammar has two different meanings depending upon its location in the sentence. If the particle comes in the middle of a sentence it means "OR". Whereas, if it comes at the end of the sentence then, it changes the sentence into a question. In the example, "Is this a textbook or a dictionary?" (Kore wa kyoukashyo desu ka, jishyou desu ka.), the "ka" which is in the middle of the sentence means 'or' and the "ka" which has come to the end of the sentence has changed it into a question. Particle "de": "de" particle has many uses and meanings respectively. Some of the uses are, showing the place where the action takes place; by using; shows the means of transport; indicates the medium of language, shows the limit.

The different ways in which Japanese particle de is used along with the examples have been listed below:-

1.

Place of action: The particle indicates the place where the action has/ is/ will take place. It comes immediately after the place in the sentence. As in the following Watashi wa resutoran de gohan o tabemasu. (I eat food at the restaurant.) Here "resutoran" is the location where the action is taking place. Hence, the Japanese particle de is used to indicate this place.

2. 3.

4.

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6.

7.

By using: This means that the particle is used to show the object which is being used to perform a particular action. E.g.: Watashi wa hasami de kami o kirimasu. ( I cut paper by using scissor. The object scissor, which we are using, is shown by "de" particle. Another use of "de" particle is to show the means of transport. In other words the vehicle, which is used to commute. E.g.: Watashi wa jitenshya de gakoo e ikimasu. ( I go to school on my bicycle.) Here the means of transport is the bicycle that I use to commute. In Japanese grammar, "de" particle is also used as a conjunction, which joins two small sentences. When "de" is used as a conjunction it means "and". In such a sentence, a comma comes immediately after the "de" particle. Following is the example of such a type of sentence construction: Kore wa ochya de, sore wa coohii desu. (This is tea and that is coffee.) Above sentence can be written into two different sentences. However, the "de" particle has been used as a conjunction to form one single statement. When we are talking about a medium of language in our conversation then at such a time "de" particle is used to show that medium. E.g.: Eigo de tegami o kaite kudasai. ( Please write the letter in English language.) In this example the medium of language about which we are talking is English. So, the Japanese particle de is being used. While showing the limit or the number of people and objects "de" particle is used. In other words it means " in all, total". E.g.: Hitori de nihon e ikimasu ka. ( Are you going alone to Japan?) Bara no hana wa sanpon de sanbyaku yen desu. ( In all, the 3 rose flower are for 300 yen.) In the first sentence, the number of people traveling to Japan is only one, which has been shown by "de" particle. In the second sentence, the total number of books is 3 which has been demonstrated by "de" particle. While giving reason of something that has occurred suddenly "de" particle is used. In English, it means "because of/ due to". E.g.: Kaze de kaishya e ikimasen. ( Due to cold I did not go to company.) All the above stated uses of "de" particle are very important parts of Japanese grammar. Read the examples very carefully to understand the various meanings and uses of this "de" particle.

E, To, Ya and No Particles

The Japanese particle "e" has only one use but a significant one. Without using this particle, a sentence will not have any meaning. The Japanese particles "to" and "ya" have a similar meaning. "ya" particle is some times used as a substitute for "to" particle but only in few cases.

"No" particle has more than one use. It is very important to understand how to use Japanese particles while constructing a meaningful sentence. Following is the explanation of the various uses of Japanese particles "E", "To", "Ya" and "No":"E" Particle: When the hiragana consonant "he" is used as a particle then it is pronounced as "e". The particle "e" has only one but very important use in Japanese grammar. The movement of a person from one place to another is shown by the "e" particle. It indicates the destination to which one wants to go. E.g.: Yamamoto san wa kaishya e ikimasu. (Mr. Yamamoto will go to the company.) In the example, the destination to which Mr. Yamamoto wants to go is the company. Hence, the company is shown by "e" particle. To Particle: The particle "to", means "and" or "along with" depending upon the context of the sentence. When used as a conjunction it means "and". The particle joins two or more nouns or common nouns. While performing an action with the cooperation of some one else at that time "to" particle means "along with". It shows the person who is helping or cooperating with the main subject of the sentence. E.g.: Tsukue no ue ni kudamono to gyunyu to shinbun ga arimasu. (There are fruits and milk and newspaper on the table.) Watashi wa haha to nihon e ikimasu. ( I will go to Japan along with my mother.) In the first example, the meaning of "to" particle is "and". In the second example, the meaning of "to" particle is "along with". Ya Particle: The particles "to" and "ya" have very similar meaning. Both mean "and" but there is a little difference in their uses. As stated above, "to" particle joins two or more nouns or common nouns. "Ya" particle is used when we want to tell things which are present in a particular area. Instead of specifying, the name of each and every object we can just talk about one or two and den use the pattern "nado ga arimasu". The complete grammar pattern is " ya ya nado ga arimasu. Even only "ya" particle is also used at times. E.g.: Reizouko no naka ni yasai ya kudamono ya pan nado ga arimasu. (There vegetables and fruits and bread etc. inside the fridge.) The area we are talking about is the fridge. Here instead of listing down each object present in the fridge we have used ya ya nado ga arimasu, which in shart means (-and and etc.). Again it is not a rule that "ya" particle has to be used twice; it can be used once or thrice also. "No" Particle: The particle "no" has more than one use. The various uses and their respective meaning according to the context are as below:1. One of the meaning of the "no" particle is "of". It indicates what a person possesses. In other words it comes after the noun in a sentence. E.g.: Kore wa watashi no shiatsu desu. (This is my shirt.) Here I am showing that this shirt is mine. The particle can be instead of a noun. E.g.: Kutsushita wo kudasai. Sono akai no wo kudasai. (Please give me shoes. Please give those red ones.) In this example instead of again saying that give me those red shoes, I directly use the particle "no". This particle is used before the words, which show time like "toki" and "ato". "no toki" means "at the time of" and "no ato" means "after". Example of both of these is as follows: shiken no toki takusan benkyou wo shimasu. (At the time of exams I study a lot.) asagohan no ato de gakkou e ikimasu. (After breakfast, I will go to school.)

2. 3.

All the above mention Japanese particles have very few or even one use. They are not at all difficult to use while communicating. Again, one very important thing to remember is that all these particles are always written in hiragana only. Ga particle: On many occasions, it is said that in Japanese grammar "wa" and "ga" particles are the same. However, this is not true because "wa" particle indicates the subject of a sentence and "ga" particle indicates the topic of a sentence. "wa" is used to specify or give importance to one single object or person. On the other hand, "ga" particle is used in a generalized way. It does not give importance to only one thing. Following are the different ways in which the Japanese particle ga is used in Japanese language:-

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To show existence: Always with the verbs arimasu (for non-living things) and imasu (for living things) ga particle is used. It shows the existence of a thing or person. Particle ga comes befor arimasu or imasu. E.g. : Kurasu ni gakuseitachi ga imasu. (Students are inside the class.) Kurasu ni isu to tsukue ga arimasu. (There are chairs and tables in the class.) Conjunction: Ga particle is used as a conjunction meaning "but". It joins two sentences, which contradict each other. E.g.: Takushi wa benri desu ga takai desu. (Taxi is convenient but expensive.) In the above example, the sentence before ga particle contradicts the sentence after ga particle. Ga particle is always used with the words suki (like); kirai (dislike); jyouzuu (expert); heta (not expert) and hoshii(want/ desire). Following is the example of each of these:Watashi wa dansu ga suki desu. (I like dance.) Watashi wa ringo ga kirai desu. (I dislike apples.) Ueda san wa kanji ga jyouzuu desu. (Mrs. Ueda is an expert in kanji.) Imotou wa e ga heta desu. (My younger sister is not expert in drawing.) Watashi wa kuruma ga hoshii desu. (I desire to get a car.) "ga" particle is also used as an interrogative pronoun. E.g.: Dare ga Tanaka san desu ka. (Who IS Mr. Tanaka?) Another use of the Japanese particle wa is to point out some natural phenomenon:

Wa particle: Whenever hiragana consonant "ha" is used as a particle, it is pronounced as "wa". This is a rule of Japanese grammar, which everybody should always remember and follow. The "wa" particle has only one use but is the most important in Japanese language. Th e role this particle plays is, it shows the subject of the sentence. In other words, it is the subject indicator of the sentence. The "wa" particle always follows the subject in the sentence. E.g.: Sono hito wa sensei desu. (That person is a teacher.) In this example, we are talking about a person who is a teacher. Hence, the main subject in the sentence is that person. Mo particle: In Japanese grammar, one of the simplest particles to understand and to use it the "mo" particle. This particle in English means "also". E.g.: Nakaji san wa nihonjin desu. Nino san mo nihonjin desu. (Nakaji is a Japanese National. Nino is also a Japanese national.) All the above Japanese particles are very easy to understand and to use in the daily conversation. Following is the list of the various uses and meanings of Japanese particle "ni":

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The very first and basic use is to show location of things or people. In other words, it shows the existence of a thing or person at a particular place. E.g. : Khaban ni enpitsu ga arimasu. (The pencil is in the bag.) Kyoushitsu ni gakuseitachi ga imasu. (The students are in the class.) In both the above examples "ni" particle shows the location of people and thing. Ni particle always comes after the following list of prepositions o koko ni- Here o Soko ni- There o Asoko ni- That over there o Naka ni- Inside o Soto ni- Outside o Ue ni- Above o Shita ni- Down o Soba ni- Nearby o Mae ni- In front of o Ushiro ni- Behind o Tonari ni- Next to The particle is used while talking about a specific date, day, time, month and year. E.g.: Watashi wa maiasa hachiji ni okimasu. (Every morning I wake up at 8oclock.) In this example, the exact time is specified by ni particle.

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When the verb "naru (narimasu)" is added to "ni" particle it means to become. Most of the times a noun come before "ni naru". It demonstrates the change of a person, thing or condition from one phase to another. E.g.: Rainen John san wa ishya ni narimasu. (Next year John san will become a doctor.) Heya wa kirei ni narimasu. (The room has become beautiful.) Ni particle when combined with the verb "norimasu (noru)" means to get into a vehicle. It shows the vehicle in which you have got it. Hence, the name of the vehicle comes before "ni norimasu". E.g.: Tomodachi wa hikouki ni norimashita. (My friend got in the airplane.) Ni particle when combined with the verb "au (aimasu)" means to meet. In this case, if you are going to meet a friend then the decision will be only yours. Your friend will not be aware of the fact that you are going to meet him/ her. Following example will make the concept more clear to youYamamoto san wa sensei ni aimasu. (Mr. Yamamoto will meet his teacher.) In this case, Yamamoto has alone decided to go and meet his teacher. Whereas his teacher is unaware of this decision. Ni particle indicates the receiver of the action. In other words, for who the action is taking place, that receiver of the action is shown by this particle.

Sensei wa gakuseitachi ni nihongo o oshiemasu. (Teacher teaches Japanese to students.) In the above example, the action of teaching is performed for the students. Hence, the receivers are the students who are indicated by the "ni" particle. All the above stated uses of the "ni" particle are a part of the syllabus of the N5 exam of Japanese language proficiency test (JLPT). Therefore, it is very important to know and understand them all. The meaning should be understood from the context of the sentence. Try to make some sentences of your own, which would help you strengthen you concept

Ten Favorite Japanese Expressions

yatta (I did it!) Say yatta (yaht-tah) when you accomplish something big or receive a great opportunity. Passing a difficult test, getting the job you wanted, or winning the lottery all qualify as yatta material. Honto (Realty) Say honto (hohn-tohh) to confirm what you just heard. Suppose your colleague tells you that she's marrying your boss. Respond to the news by saying honto. You can use honto in a lot of situations because unbelievable things happen every day. A, so desu ka (Realty) Say a, so desu ka (ahh, sohh deh-soo kah) every time your conversational partner provides a new piece of information. Be sure to nod as you say this expression. If you talk casually with a Japanese person, you may use this phrase 200 times in an hour. Mochiron (Of course!) Use this adverb when you're 100 percent confident in your opinion. If you were a married man, how would you answer this question from your wife: "Would you marry me if you had a chance to do it all over again?" Don't think about it; just say mochiron (moh-chee-rohn). A, yokatta (Oh, good) Say a, yokatta (ahh, yoh-kaht-tah) every time you feel like saying "What a relief" or "Oh, good." If you're a worrier, you may say it ten times a day. Zenzen (Not at all) Zenzen (zehn-zehn) is the phrase of denial. Suppose someone asks you, "Am I disturbing you?" If she isn't bothering you, say zenzen and shake your head.

Nani (What?) Say nani (nah-nee) when you don't hear or understand what the other person said. You can also say nani when you can't believe or don't like what you hear. Ooshiyo (What shall I do?) Say doshiyo (dohh-shee-yohh) when you're in a panic and have no idea what to do. You can repeat it over and over while you try to think of a solution. A, bikkurishita (What a surprise!) Say a, bikkurishita (ahh, beek-koo-ree-shee-tah) when you're very surprised. ylappari (I knew it Would happen) Sometimes you have a vague suspicion that something will happen, and then it actually happens. At times like that, say yappari (yahp-pah-ree).

Basic Japanese Phrases

Start using the following short Japanese phrases at home. You may need your family's cooperation, but if you make it a habit, you'll be amazed at how quickly you pick up a bit of Japanese.

Domo (dohh-moh; Thank you or Hi!) le (eee-eh; No or Don't mention it.) Hai (hah-ee; Yes) Wakarimasen (wah-kah-ree-mah-sen; I don't understand.) Shiriiriasen (she-ree-mah-sen; I don't know the answer to that question.) Zenzen (zehn-zehn; Not at all or It was nothing.) Ii desu ne (ee-ee deh-soo neh; That's a great idea!)

Yatta(yaht-tah; Yahoo! I did it.) Gambatte(gahm-baht-teh; Go for it! or Try your best!) Omedeto (oh-meh-deh-tohh; Congratulations!) Yokoso (yohh-koh-soh; Welcome!) Shinpai shinaide (sheen-pah-ee shee-nah-ee-deh; Don't worry!) Makasete (mah-kahTseh-teh; Count on me!) So, so (sohh, sohh; You're right, you're right!) Used when you agree with someone's statement. This phrase is similar to what you mean when you say "yeah" in the middle of an English conversation just to let the other person know that you're listening. Dame (dah-meh; You're not allowed to do that or That's bad!) Used when you want to stop someone from doing something or when you want to say that something is bad or impermissible. You'd never say this phrase to a superior or to someone older than you. You can say it to children, siblings, or very close friends. Enryo shinaide (Don't be shy) Japanese guests often refuse food or drink offers at least once. If you're the host, say enryo shinaide (ehn-ryoh shee-nah-ee-deh). Mottainai (What a Waste/It's too qood) Say mottainai (moht-tah-ee-nah-ee) to object to waste. You can also say it if someone lacks a true appreciation for something valuable. Osakini (Pardon me, but I'm ieavinq now) When you have to leave a gathering early, say osakini (oh-sah-kee-nee; literally means earlier) to display your thoughtfulness for others.

 Sasuga (I'm impressed by you, as usual) Sasuga (sah-soo-gah) literally means "as might have been expected," but it's commonly used as a compliment. If a friend wins a competition, say pasuga. Gambatte (Try your best!) The Japanese believe that the effort is more important than the result. If a friend's going to take an important exam, say gambatte (gahm-baht-teh) to her. Shoganai (There's no choice/There's nothing that can be done) When you're in a jam and none of the possible solutions will work well, choose one and say shoganai (shohh-gahnah-ee), which shows that you've resigned yourself to the situation. Okage-sama de (Luckily/Thanks to you) If someone asks ogenki desu ka (oh-gehn-kee deh-soo kah; How are you?), answer with the modest okage-sama de (oh-kah-geh-sah-mah de) rather than genki desu (gehn-kee deh-soo; I'm fine). The original meaning is that your well-being is due to God and others, including the person you're talking to. Gokuro-sama (Thank you for your trouble) If you're the boss, say gokur5-sama (goh-koo-rohh-sah-mah) to each of your workers when they say good-bye to you at the end of the day. yoroshiku (Pleased to meet you/1 appreciate your helping me) You can say yoroshiku (yoh-roh-shee-koo) when you first meet someone, as in you're pleased to meet him. You can also say it after asking a favor of someone, in which case it means "I appreciate your helping me." Taihen desu ne (That's tough)

Konnichi wa. Hello. Ohayoo Gozaimasu. Good morning. Hajimemashite. Nice to meet you. Watashi wa Suzuki Akio desu. I am Akio Suzuki. Anata wa Nihon-jin desu ka. Are you a Japanese? Kore wa nan desu ka. What is this? Sore wa nan desu ka. What is that? Kore wa konpyuutaa desu. This is a computer. Kono hon wa tomodachi no desu. This is my friend's book. Shibaraku desu ne. It's been a long time. Anata wa isogashii desu ka. Are you busy? Morita San wa nansai desu ka. Mr. Morita, how old are you?

Otoo-san to okaa-san wa doko desu ka. Where are your father and mother? Sumisu-san to Tanaka-san wa sensei desu. Mr. Smith and Mr. Tanaka are teachers. Kaimono ni ikimasu. I'm going shopping. Nani o kaimasu ka. What will you buy? Ganbatte kudasai. Good luck. Tookyoo e ikimashita. I went to Tokyo. Kondo no shuumatsu tookyoo e ikimasu. I am going to Tokyo this weekend.

When we meet someone for the first time, there is a specific way in which we introduce ourselves to each other. The language used should be simple, polite and understandable. The body language and gestures should be appropriate. In Japan, there are certain greetings, which should always be used while introducing your self. Introduction in Japanese is known as "Jiko Shyoukai". Another very important rule to remember while introduction in Japanese is that of, "Ojigi" which, the act of bowing is down while greeting each other. This chapter describes how to introduce yourself when you meet a Japanese person for the first time. Japanese Version-1 Yoshida: Odagiri: Yoshida: Odagiri: Yoshida: Odagiri: Hajimemashite. Yoshida Ken to moshimasu. Watashiwa nihonjin desu. Hajimemashite. Watashi no name wa Odagiri Satoko desu. Watashi mo nihonjin desu. Yoshida san wan nan sai desu ka. watashi wa ni jyu ni sai desu. Odagiri san nani o shimasu ka. Watashi wa chikaku no kissaten de arubaitou o shimasu. Yoshida san wa gakusei desu ka. Hai gakusei desu. Douzo yoroshiku. Douzo yoroshiku.

English Version-1 Yoshida: Odagiri: Yoshida: Odagiri: Yoshida: Yamada: How do you do? I am called Yoshida Ken. I am a Japanese national. How do you do? My name is Odagiri Satoko. I am also a Japanese national. Mr. Yoshida what is your age? My age is 22 years. Miss Odagiri what do you do? I do a part time job in the nearby Coffee shop. Mr. Yoshida are you a student? Yes I am a student. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you.

Japanese Version-2 Tanaka: Kimura: Tanaka: Konnichiwa. Konnichiwa. Kimura-san, kochira wa watashi no tomodachi desu. Yamada Hiroko-san desu.

Yamada: Kimura: Yamada: Kimura: Yamada: Kimura: Yamada: Kimura:

Hajimemashite. Yamada Hiroko desu. Douzo yoroshiku. Kimura Ichirou desu. Douzo yoroshiku. Gakusei desu ka. Hai, gakusei desu. Go-senmon wa. Keizai desu. Anata mo gakusei desu ka. Iie, hisho desu. Sou desu ka.

English Version-2 Tanaka: Kimura: Tanaka: Yamada: Kimura: Yamada: Kimura: Yamada: Kimura: Yamada: Kimura: Hello. Hello. Mr. Kimura, this is my friend. This is Hiroko Yamada. How do you do? I'm Hiroko Yamada. Nice to meet you. I'm Ichirou Kimura. Nice to meet you. Are you a student? Yes, I am. What is your specialization? Economics. Are you a student, too? No, I'm a secretary. I see.

Note: The Japanese people always mention the family name first while using full names. For example, with the name Kimura Ichirou, Ichirou is the given name and Kimura is the family name. The Japanese people do not have middle names. Everyone knows that people in Western countries put the given name first, so you can introduce yourself without reversing your name. Outside their families or circle of closest friends, Japanese adults are rarely addressed by their given names, even by neighbors or co-workers. Another significant point to remember is that after the name, the Japanese always use a suffix "san" which means Mr. or Mrs. or Miss. San is always used after the name. This is a rule, which everybody needs to follow. Another suffix "kun" is also used after the name but only for males. "Kun" also means "Mr." however always keep in mind that san is used for every one and Kun is used only for men

Japanese at Restaurant
This chapter gives information on what and how to speak in japanese in restaurants.Learning japanese is made simlpe here..just see Japanese Version A: B: A: B: A: B: Sumimasen. Hai. Kono chikaku ni denwa ga arimasu ka. Denwa nara kono biru no nikai ni arimasu. Shokudou no mae desu kara sugu wakarimasu yo. Doomo. Iie.

C: D: C: D:

Ano, sumimasen. Hai. Toshokan wa doko deshou ka. Asoko ni ookii biru ga arimasu ne. Toshokan wa ano biru no tonari desu. Gofun gurai desu yo.

C: D:

Doomo arigatou gozaimashita. Doo itashimashite.

English Version A: B: A: B: A: B: C: D: C: D: Excuse me. Yes. Is there a telephone nearby? The telephone is on the second floor of this building. It is in front of the cafeteria , you won't miss it. Thanks. Not at all. Excuse me. Yes. Could you tell me where the library is? There is a big building over there, you see? The library is next to that building. It takes about five minutes. C: D: Thank you very much. You are welcome.

Asking Directions in Japanese

This chapter will show you how should you ask for directions in japanese. Japanese Version A: Sumimasen. B: Hai. A: Kono chikaku ni denwa ga arimasu ka. B: Denwa nara kono biru no nikai ni arimasu. Shokudou no mae desu kara sugu wakarimasu yo. A: Doomo. B: Iie. C: Ano, sumimasen. D: Hai. C: Toshokan wa doko deshou ka.

D: Asoko ni ookii biru ga arimasu ne. Toshokan wa ano biru no tonari desu. Gofun gurai desu yo. C: Doomo arigatou gozaimashita. D: Doo itashimashite.

English Version A: B: A: B: A: B: C: D: C: D: Excuse me. Yes. Is there a telephone nearby? The telephone is on the second floor of this building. It is in front of the cafeteria , you won't miss it. Thanks. Not at all. Excuse me. Yes. Could you tell me where the library is? There is a big building over there, you see? The library is next to that building. It takes about five minutes. C: D: Thank you very much. You are welcome.

Vowel sounds

Japanese has only five basic vowels - a, e, i, o, and u - all of which sound short and crisp - plus their longer counterparts, a, e, i, o, andu. Short and long vowel sounds in Japanese are quite different than they are in English. In Japanese, long vowels have the same sounds as short vowels - you just draw out the sounds for a moment longer. To an English-speaking ear, a long Japanese vowel sounds as if it is being stressed. Short and long vowel sounds in Japanese are quite different than they are in English. In Japanese, long vowels have the same sounds as short vowels - you just draw out the sounds for a moment longer. To an Englishspeaking ear, a long Japanese vowel sounds as if it's being stressed. Japanese Vowel Sounds Letter Pronunciation English Word with the Sound aa bed Example

a a e

a a ee

obasan (o-ba-san; aunt) obaasan (o-ba-san; grandmother) Seto (se-to; a city in Japan)

e i ii 0 0 u u

ehh i ii o oo u uu

feet dome foot -

seto (seh-to; pupil) ojisan (o-ji-san;uncle) ojisan (o-ji-i-san; grandfather tori (to-ri; bird) tori (to-o-ri; street) yuki (yu-ki; snow) yuiki (yu-i-ki; courage)

In Japanese, any two vowels can appear next to each other in a word. You may hear them as one vowel sound, but to the Japanese, they sound like two vowels. For example, ai (ah-ee; love) sounds like one vowel - the English i (as in eye) - but to the Japanese, it's actually two vowels, not one. The word koi (koh-ee; carp) sounds like the onesyllable English word coy, but in Japanese, koi is a two-syllable word. Table below lists some other common vowel combinations. Some of them may sound awfully similar to you, but Japanese speakers hear them differently. Try saying them aloud so that you can hear the differences. Vowel Combinations Vowel Combination Ai Mae Ao Au Ue Koi Koe Pronunciation a-i ma-e a-o a-u u-e ko-i ko-e Translation love front blue meet up carp voice

The vowels i (ee) and u (oo) come out as a whisper whenever they fall between the consonant sounds ch, h, k, p, s, sh, t, and ts or whenever a word ends in this consonant-vowel combination. What do those consonants have in common? They're what linguists call "voiceless," meaning that they don't make your vocal cords vibrate. Put your hand over your vocal cords and say a voiceless consonant like the k sound. Then say a "voiced" consonant like the g sound. Words with Whispered Vowels Japanese Pronunciation Translation

Suketo Kusai Ashita So desu

Su-Ke-to Ku-Sa-i A-Shi-ta so-du-su

skating stinky tommorow that's right

Words without Whispered Vowels Japanese Sugoi Kuni Kagu Pronunciation Su-go-i Ku-ni Ka-gu Translation amazing; wow country furniture

Consonant sounds
Fortunately, most Japanese consonants are pronounced as they are in English. Table below describes the sounds that you need to pay attention to. Japanese Consonants Different from English Consonant Description of the Sound r Examples rakuda (ra-ku-da; camel); toca (tohrah; tiger); tori (tohree; bird) Fujisan (foo-jee-sahn; Mt. Fuji); tofu (tohhfoo; bean curd); fufu (fu-fu; married couple) tsunami (tsoo-nahmee; tidal wave); tsuki (tsu-ki; the moon) ryo (ryohh; dormitory); ryokan (ryo-kan; Japanesestyle inn)

Here you tap your tounge on the roof of your mouth just once - almost like an English f-somewhere between an f and an h sound.

A much softer sound than the English f-somewhere between an f and an h sound. Make the sound by bringing your lips close to each other and gently blowing air through them.

ts

The combination is hard to pronounce at the beginning of a word, as in tsunami, although it's easy anywhere else. Try saying the word cats in your head and then saying tsunami. The combination of rand yis difficult to pronounce when it occurs before the vowel o. Try saying ri (ree) and then yo (yoh). Repeat many times and gradually increase the speed until you can pronounce the two sounds simultaneously. Remember that the rsounds almost like a dm English.

ry

Like most other languages, Japanese has double consonants. You pronounce these double consonants - pp, tt, kk, and ss - as single consonants preceded by a brief pause. Check out the following examples:

kekkon (kehk-kohn; marriage) kippu (keep-poo; tickets) kitte (keet-teh; stamps) massugu (mahs-soo-goo; straight)

Forming Japanese Sentences

The basic word order in English is subject-verb-object. In Japanese, it's subject-object-verb. Instead of saying "I watched TV," for example, you say "I TV watched." Instead of saying "I ate sushi," you say "I sushi ate." Repeat after me: Put the verb at the end! Verb end!

Introducing particles Subject-object-verb is the basic word order in Japanese, but object-subject-verb is also okay. As long as the verb is at the end of the sentence, Japanese grammar teachers are happy. For example, ii Mary invited John, you can say either "Mary John invited" or "John Mary invited" in Japanese. A smart person like you may say, "Wait a minute! How do you know who invited whom?" The secret is that Japanese uses a tag called a particle after each noun phrase. The particle for the action performer (the subject) is ga (gah), and the particle for the action receiver (the direct object) is o (oh). So both the following sentences mean "Mary invited John".

Mari ga Jon o sasotta. (mah-reee gah John oh sah-soht-tah) Jon o Mari ga sasotta. (John oh mah-reee gah sah-soht-tah)

Other Japanese particles include kara (kah-rah), made (mah-deh), ni (nee), de (deh), to (toh), and ka (kah). Luckily, they can be translated into English words iike from, until, to, with, by, at, in, on, and, and or. But each particle is translated differently depending on the context. For example, the particle de corresponds to in, by, or with in English:

Bosuton de benkyo sum. (boh-soo-tohn deh behn-kyohh soo-roo; I'll study in Boston.) TakushI de iku. (tah-koo-sheee deh ee-koo; I'll go by taxi.) Foku de taberu. (fohh-koo deh tah-beh-roo; I eat with a fork.) Particles

Particle ga(gah) o(oh)

Translation No English equivalent No English equivalent

General Function Specifies the subject of the sentence Specifies the direct object of the sentence Specifies the starting point of the action Specifies the ending point of the action Specifies the target of the action Specifies the time of the event San-ji ni tsuita. Specifies the direction of the action Specifies how the action takes

Example Jon ga kita.(John gah kee-tah; John came.) Mari ga Jon o sasotta. (mah-reee gah John oh sah-soht-tah; Mary invited John.) Ku-ji kara benkyo shita. (koo-jee kah-rah behn-kyohh shee-tah; I studied from 9:00.) San-ji made benkyo shita. (sahn-jee mahdeh behn-kyohh shee-tah; I studied until 3:00.) Nihon ni itta. (nee-hohn nee eet-tah; I went to Japan.) Tokyo ni tsuita. (tohh-kyohh nee tsoo-ee-tah; I arrived at Tokyo.) (sahn-jee nee tsoo-ee-tah; I arrived at 3:00.) Tokyo e itta. (tohh-kyohh eh eet-tah; 1 wentto Tokyo.) Bosuton de benkyo shita. (boh-soo-tohn de

kara from (kah-rah) made (mahdeh) ni (nee) until

to, on, at

ni(nee) e (eh) de (deh)

to, on, at to, toward in, by, with,

at

place; indicates the location,manner, or background condition of the action Creates a possessive phrase or modifier phrase Lists items

behn-kyohh shee-tah; I studied in Boston.) TakushT de itta. (tah-koo sheee deh eettah; I wentthere by taxi.) Foku de tabeta. (fohh-koo deh tah-beh-tah; I ate with a fork.) Marl no hon (mah-reee noh hohn; Mary's book) Nihongo no hon (nee-hon-goh noh hohn; A Japanese language book) Sushi to sashimi o tabeta. (soo-shee toh sah-shee-mee oh tah-beh-tah; 1 ate sushi and sashimi.) Jon ga Marl to utatta. (John gah mah-reee toh oo-taht-tah; John sang with Mary.) Sushi ka sashimi otaberu. (soo-shee kahsah-shee-mee oh tah-beh-roo; I will eat sushi or sashimi.)

no(noh)

's

to (toh)

and

to (toh) ka(kah)

with or

Specifies an item with the same status as the subject Lists choices

You can have a bunch of particles in a sentence, as in these examples:

Mari ga kuruma de Tokyo e itta. (mah-reee gah koo-roo-mah deh tohh-kyohh eh eet-tah; Mary went to Tokyo by car.) Jon no otosan kara biru to osake to wain o moratta. (john noh oh-tohh-sahn kah-rah beee-roo toh oh-sah-keh toh wah-een oh moh-raht-tah; I received beer, sake, and wine from John's dad.)

Japanese nouns need these particles, but they don't need articles like a and the in English. Furthermore, you don't need to specify singular or plural. Tamago (tah-mah-goh) means either "an egg" or "eggs." Numbers from 1 to 10: You can master the art of counting from 1 to 10 right now. Check out below table Numbers from 11 to 99 The Japanese number system is both cumbersome and logical. The concept of lucky and unlucky numbers is the cumbersome part. The Japanese think that 3, 5, and 7 are lucky numbers and that 4 and 9 are unlucky. So, the next time you give cookies to a Japanese person, give any number except 4 or 9. Now for the logical part: To make any number from 11 to 99, you combine the numbers 1 to 10. For example:

11 12 20 21

is is is is

jyuu-ichi (jyu-u-i-chi) - 10 (jyu) plus 1 (ichi). jyuu-ni (jyu-u-ni) - 10 (jyuu) plus 2 (ni). two sets of ten, so you say "two tens," or 1 ni-jyuu (ni-jyu-u). ni-ju-ichi (ni-jyu-u-i-chi) - 20 (ni-jyu) plus l(ichi).

You can use this pattern to count until kyuu-jyuu-kyuu (kyu-u-jyu-u-kyu-u; 99, or 9 tens plus 9). Numbers from 10O to 9,999 To count over 100, keep using the pattern for numbers 11 to 99:

100 is hyaku (hyah-koo), so 200 is ni-hyaku (nee-hyah-koo). 1,000 is sen (sehn), so 2,000 is ni-sen (nee-sehn).

Numbers from 10,000 to 100,000 Unlike English, Japanese has a special digit name for 10,000: man (ma-n). For 50,000, you may want to say gojyu-sen because your mathematical logic is that 50,000 is go-jyu (50) of sen (1,000), but the Japanese say goman (go-man; 50,000). Ten thousand is ichi-man (i-chi-man; 10,000), 20,000 is ni-man (ni-man; 20,000), and so on. One-hundred thousand is not 100 sen (thousand) but 10 man, or ju-man. Getting used to it? Check out below table to compare digit names

If you're not sure of your counting abilities just yet, look up the numbers over 10,000 in below table.

Japanese numbers is the simplest part to learn when you start learning Japanese. Just keep the simple logic of combining number into your mind and then you will be able to change any given number into Japanese pronunciation.

This chapter gives information on what and how to speak in Japanese at meeting. The first word you say when introducing yourself to someone for the first time is hajimemashite (hah-jee-mehmah-shee-teh). This word literally means "beginning," and it clarifies the fact that you're meeting the person for the first time. Next, say your name and then say yoroshiku onegaishimasu (yoh-roh-shee-koo oh-neh-gah-ee-shemah-soo). Yoroshiku is a set phrase that shows your modest attitude and asks the other person to be friendly. No English translation exists for it. The response to yoroshiku onegaishimasu is usually kochirakoso yoroshiku onegaishimasu (koh-chee-rah-koh-soh yoh-roh-shee-koo oh-neh-gah-ee-she-mah-soo), meaning "It's I who should say that." So if you beg someone to be friendly, they beg you right back. After all that begging, you're friends! Asking people their names As in English, telling someone your namae (nah-mah-eh; name) in Japanese is more or less a cue for that person to tell you his or her name. If it doesn't turn out that way, you can ask Shitsurei desu ga, o-namae wa (shee-tsoorehh deh-soo gah, oh-nah-mah-eh wah; I may be rude, but what's your name?). Sometimes, using o- is obligatory regardless of whether you're talking about yourself or about others. For example, the word for money is kane (kah-neh), but people almost always call it okane (oh-kah-neh). Addressing friends and strangers In English, you address others by their first names ("Hi, Robert!"), by their nicknames ("Hey, Bobby!"), by their positions ("Excuse me, professor"), or by their family names and appropriate titles ("Hello, Mr. Wright"), depending on your relationship. In Japanese society, addressing people is something you don't want to mess up. When you meet someone new at work and you know the person's occupational title, such as company president, professor, or division manager, use the title along with his or her family name - for example, Sumisu-shacho (soo-mee-soo-shah-chohh; President Smith). Following are some examples of occupational titles:

bucho (boo-chohh; department manager) gakucho (gah-koo-chohh; university president) kocho (kohh-chohh; principal) sensei (sehn-sehh; teacher) shacho (shah-chohh; company president) tencho (tehn-chohh; store manager)

If you don't know the person's occupational title, the safest way to address him or her is to use his or her family name plus the respectful title -san (sahn), as in - Sumisu-san (soo-mee-soo-sahn; Ms. Smith). -Sama (sah-mah) is even more polite, but it's too formal and businesslike for most social situations. Other titles include -chan (chahn) and -kun (koon), but they must be used carefully. Table below shows you which titles are appropriate for friends and acquaintances, with examples of various ways to address Robert and Susan Smith. Titles Title Function Example Suzan-chan (sooo-zahn-chahn), Robatochan (roh-bahh-toh-chahn) Robato-kun (roh-bahh-toh-koon) Sumisukun(soo-mee-soo-koon) Sumisu-sama (soo-mee-soo-sahmah),Suzan-sama (sooo-zahn-sah-mah),

-chan(chahn) For children, used after a boy's or girl's given name. -kun (koon) Used after a boy's given name Also used after a subordinate's family name, regardless of gender. Used after a superior's or customer's name regardless of

-sama(sahmah)

gender.Also used when addressing letters (Dear...) -san (sahn) The most common title used, especially when the person's relationship to you is unclear.

Robato Sumisu-sama (roh-bahh-toh soomee-soo-sah-mah) Sumisu-san (soo-mee-soo-sahn), Suzansan (sooo-zahn-sahn), Robato Sumisu-san (roh-bahh-toh soo-mee-soo-sahn)

When introducing themselves, the Japanese give their family name first and given name second. Most Japanese people realize that Western names aren't in the same order, and they don't expect you to reverse the order of your own name to match the pattern of their names. If you use the Japanese word for "you" - anata (ah-nah-tah) - you'll sound boastful or rude. Japanese uses names or titles where English uses "you." Instead of "you," you can use age- and gender-sensitive terms when addressing strangers in friendly contexts. For example, ojisan (oh-jee-sahn) literally means "uncle," but you can use it to address any unfamiliar middle-aged man. The following list shows other general terms you can use to address strangers:

Middle-aged man: ojisan (oh-jee-sahn; literally, uncle) Middle-aged woman: obasan (oh-bah-sahn; literally, aunt) Old man: ojisan (oh-jeee-sahn; literally, grandfather) Old woman: obasan (oh-bahh-sahn; literally, grandmother) Young boy: boya or obocchan (bohh-yah or oh-boht-chahn; literally, son) Young girl: ojosan (oh-johh-sahn; literally, daughter) Young man: onisan (oh-neee-sahn; literally, big brother) Young woman: onesan (oh-nehh-sahn; literally, big sister) Words to Know Hajimemashite. Yoroshiku. Onamae wa. Watashi no namae wa_______desu. hah-jee-meh-mah-shee-teh yoh-roh-shee-koo oh-nah-mah-eh wah wah-tah-shee noh nah-mah-eh wah_______deh-spo How do you do? Pleased to meet you. What's your name? My name is_______

Greetings Japanese ohayo ohayo gozaimasu konnichiwa konbanwa Pronunciation oh-hah-yohh oh-hah-yohh goh-zah-ee-mah-soo kohn-nee-chee-wah kohn-bahn-wah Translation good morning (informal) good morning (formal) good afternoon good evening

Just saying "hi" is impolite. If you haven't seen someone for a while, ask O-genki desu ka (oh-gehn-kee deh-soo kah; How are you?) as well. When others ask you how you are, you can say Hai, genki desu (hah-ee, gehn-kee deh-soo; I'm fine), but if you want to sound a bit more sophisticated, you can say Hai, okagesamade (hah-ee oh-kah-geh-sah-mah-deh; Yes, I'm fine thanks to you and God) or Nantoka (nahn-toh-kah; I'm barely managing things in my life or I'm barely coping). These two expressions sound modest and mature to the Japanese, although they sound pretty negative to American ears. English speakers make a habit of asking everyone, friends and strangers alike, how they are, even if they know that the person is fine. Asking this question in Japanese is different. O-genki desu ka is a serious question about a person's mental and physical health.

Paying attention and saying so When someone says something to you or gives you a piece of information, you can't just stare back. You must nod. You can also say a, so desu ka (ahh, sohh deh-soo kah), which means "Oh, really?" or "Oh, I see." Or you can just say a (ahh) as you nod to convey the same message. By doing so, you acknowledge the information given. If you don't do it, your conversation partner may begin to think that you're upset or rude. Saying good-bye When you leave a friend, say ja, mata (jahh mah-tah; see you again). If you're parting for a longer period, you can also say sayonara (sah-yohh-nah-rah; goodbye), but don't use this option if you'll see the person later the same day. When you bid farewell to your boss or teacher, say shitsurei shimasu (shee-tsoo-rehh-shee-mah-soo). Shitsurei shunasu literally means "I'll be rude." How do you get "good-bye" out of "I'll be rude"? It's as if you're saying "I'm being rude by leaving your presence." Expressing Gratitude and Regret Phrases of gratitude and apology are the most essential phrases in any language. Suppose a stranger holds a door open for you when you're entering a building. What do you say? Suppose you accidentally step on someone's foot. How do you say "I'm sorry"? You may know the word arigato (ah-ree-gah-tohh; thanks), but you may not know that you use it only when speaking to family, friends, coworkers, subordinates, or strangers who appear easygoing and younger than you. When thanking a teacher, boss, stranger who looks older than you, or stranger who looks as if he or she isn't so easygoing, say one of the following phrases instead:

Domo arigato gozaimasu. (dohh-moh ah-ree-gah-tohh goh-zah-ee-mah-soo; Thank you, very formal) Arigato gozaimasu. (ah-ree-gah-tohh-goh-zah-ee-mah-soo; Thank you, formal) Domo. (dohh-moh; Thank you, informal)

The easiest phrase of gratitude is domo - an adverb that literally means "indeed" or "very much" but can be understood as "thank you." You can use this short, convenient, yet polite phrase of gratitude in any context. If you want to express a greater-than-normal degree of gratitude, use one of the longer phrases. To reply to a compliment, say Domo (dohh-moh; Thank you) or choose one of the following modest phrases:

le, heta desu. (eee-eh, heh-tah deh-soo; No, I'm bad.) le, madamada desu. (eee-eh, mah-dah-mah-dah deh-soo; No, not yet, not yet.) le, zenzen. (eee-eh, zehn-zehn; No, not at all.)

To apologize for something you've done or for causing someone pain or inconvenience, say Domo sumimasen (dohh-moh soo-mee-mah-sehn; I'm very sorry). In an informal context, Gomennasai (goh-mehn-nah-sah-ee; Sorry) is just fine.

How do you order in a restaurant? Do you carefully go over the menyu (meh-nyooo; menu), or do you look to see what other people are eating? Do you ask the ueta (oo-ehh-tahh; waiter) or uetoresu (oo-ehh-toh-reh-soo; waitress) for direction as to what's good? Do you routinely order a zensai (zehn-sah-ee; appetizer), an onomimono (oh-noh-mee-moh-noh; beverage), and a dezato (deh-zahh-toh; dessert) in addition to your entree? In this section, I provide you with phrases and concepts that you need to order in a restaurant. Whether you go to a four-star restaurant or the corner pub, your waiter or waitress will ask you questions like these:

Gochumon wa. (goh-chooo-mohn wah; Your order?) Nani ni nasaimasu ka. (nah-nee nee nah-sah-ee-mah-soo kah; What will you have?)

O-nomimono wa. (oh-noh-mee-moh-noh wah; Anything to drink?)

Here are a few phrases that you can use when talking to the waitstaff:

Ramen o mittsu onegaishimasu. (rahh-mehn oh meet-tsoo oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; Can we have ramen noodles for three please?) Sushi to sashimi to misoshiru o onegaishimasu.(soo-shee toh sah-shee-mee toh mee-soh-shee-roo oh oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; Can I have sushi, sashimi, and miso soup please?) Wain wa arimasu ka. (wah-een wah ah-ree-mah-soo kah; Do you have wine?) Osusumehin wa? (oh-soo-soo-meh-hin wah; What do you recommend?)

To list several dishes, use to (toh) between dishes to link them. (Think of to as a verbal comma or the word and?) To specify the quantity of each item you want to order, use the counter that applies to food items, -tsu:

hito-tsu (hee-toh-tsoo; one food item) futa-tsu (foo-tah-tsoo; two food items) mit-tsu (meet-tsoo; three food items

If you can't read the menu at a Japanese restaurant, don't worry. Most restaurants in Japan have colored pictures on the menu or life-sized wax models of the food in their windows. The easiest way to order is to follow this simple formula: Point to the picture of the dish on the menu, say kore o (koh-reh oh; this one), and say onegaishimasu (oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; I'd like to ask you) or kudasai (koo-dah-sah-ee; please give me) at the end. Do you see any of your favorites on this dinner menu?

bifuteki (bee-foo-teh-kee; beef steak) bifu shichu (beee-foo shee-chooo; beef stew) masshu poteto (mas-shoo poh-teh-toh; mashed potato) mito rofu (meee-toh rohh-foo; meatloaf) pan (pahn; bread) y sake (sah-keh; salmon) sarada (sah-rah-dah; salad) lS supu (sooo-poo; soup)

Which of the following Japanese dishes would you like to try?

gyudon (gyooo-dohn; a bowl of rice topped with cooked beef and vegetables) oyako donburi (oh-yah-koh dohn-boo-ree; a bowl of rice topped with cooked chicken and eggs) shabushabu (shah-boo-shah-boo; beef and vegetables cooked in a pot of boiling broth) sukiyaki [soo-kee-yah-kee; beef and vegetables cooked in warishita (wah-ree-shee-tah; a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and liquor)] tempura (tehm-poo-rah; deep-fried vegetables or seafood) unagi (oo-nah-gee; eel) yakiniku (yah-kee-nee-koo; Korean-style barbecue) yosenabe (yoh-seh-nah-beh; Japanese casserole of vegetables, fish, or meat)

Setting your table If there's anything missing on your table, ask the waiter for it. below table lists some items that might be missing. Dining Utensils Japanese foku gurasu kappu Pronunciation fohh-koo goo-rah-soo kahp-poo Translation fork glass cup

naifu napukin o-sara supun

nah-ee-foo nah-poo-keen oh-sah-rah soo-pooon

knife napkin plate spoon

If you're having Japanese food, you may need some of these items:

hashi (hah-shee; chopsticks) o-chawan (oh-chah-wahn; rice bowl) o-wan (oh-wahn; lacquered soup bowl)

chatting with waiter Ask questions of your ueta (oo-ehh-tahh; waiter) or uetoresu (oo-ehh-toh-reh-soo; waitress), or just chat with them about the food they served.

Kore wa nan desu ka. (koh-reh wah nahn deh-soo kah; What is this?) Watashi wa ebi ga taberaremasen. (wah-tah-shee wah eh-bee gah tah-beh-rah-reh-mah-sehn; I can't eat shrimp.) Kore wa yakete imasu ka. (koh-reh wah yah-keh-teh ee-mah-soo kah; Is it well done?) Oishii desu ne. (oh-ee-sheee deh-soo neh; This is delicious, isn't it?) Chotto hen na aji desu. (choh-toh hehn-nah ah-jee-deh-soo; It tastes sort of strange.) Totemo oishikatta desu. (toh-teh-moh oh-ee-shee-kaht-tah deh-soo; That was very delicious!) Omizu o kudasai. (oh-mee-zoo oh koo-dah-sah-ee; Water, please.) Toire wa doko desu ka. (toh-ee-ree wah doh-koh deh-soo kah; Where is the bathroom?)

Paying for your meat When you eat with your friends, do you warikan ni sum (wah-ree-kahn nee soo-roo; go Dutch), or does one person ogoru (oh-goh-roo; treat) everyone? How about when you eat with your boss? He or she probably pays, but it never hurts to say O-kanjo o onegaishi-masu (oh-kahn-johh oh oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; Check please), especially if you know that your boss won't let you pay. The following phrases are handy when you pay for your meal:

Betsubetsu ni onegaishimasu. (beh-tsoo-beh-tsoo nee oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; Please give us separate checks.) Isshoni onegaishimasu. (ees-shoh-nee oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo); Please give us one check.) O-kanjo o onegaishimasu. (oh-kahn-johh oh oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; Check please.) Ryoshusho o onegaishimasu. (ryohh-shooo-shoh oh oh-neh-gah-ee-shee-mah-soo; Receipt please.)

You don't have to tip at any restaurant in Japan, but you still get very good service 99 percent of the time. For very expensive meals, the tip is automatically included in your bill as a sabisuryo (sahh-bee-soo-ryohh; service charge). Most restaurants accept kurejitto kado (koo-reh-jeet-toh kahh-doh; credit cards), but many of them still only accept genkin (gehn-keen; cash). If you're not sure about a restaurant's policy, ask before you're seated. Words to Know chumon okanjo kurejittokado genkin o-mizu chooo-mohn oh-kan-johh kop-reh-jeet-toh gehn-keen oh-mee-zoo order check, bill kahh-doh cash water

yoyaku

yoh-yah-koo

reservation

Talking About Days And Times

Both American and Japanese weeks have seven days. The day of a week is called youbi (you-bi) in Japanese. An American week starts on nichiyobi (ni-chi-yo-u-bi; Sunday), but a Japanese week starts on getsuyobi (get-tsu-you-bi; Monday). Table below lists the days of the week.

There is one interesting thing about the names of the days in Japanese. All the names when written in kanji are associated with the elements of nature. Getsuyoubi has the kanji of moon, Kayoubi has the kanji of Fire, Suiyoubi has the kanji of water, mokuyoubi has the kanji of wood, Kinyoubi has the kanji of gold, doyoubi has the kanji of soil and Nichiyoubi has the kanji of sun. Here are some useful sentences containing the days of the week which will help you in your communication. Here are some useful phrases containing the days of the week:

KyO wa nanyobi desu ka. (kyohh wah nahn-yohh-bee deh-soo kah; What day is it today?) Kyo wa doyobi desu. (kyohh wah doh-yohh-bee deh-soo; Today is Saturday.) Getsuyobi kara kinyobi made hatarakimasu. (geh-tsoo-yohh-bee kah-rah keen-yohh-bee mah-deh hah-tah-rah-kee-mah-soo; 1 work from Monday to Friday.) Konsato wa doyobi desu. (kohn-sahh-toh wa doh-yohh-bee deh-soo; The concert is on Saturday.) Nichiyobi wa yukkuri shimasu. (nee-chee-yohh-bee wah yook-koo-ree shee-mah-soo; I relax on Sundays.)

Telling Time Japanese people are very strict about time. They do not like people who reach late for any occasion. They are very punctual about every single activity. Time in Japanese is expressed by using ji counter which means oclock or hours. The table below enlists the hours from 1 to 12.

When you want to express a.m. and p.m. then use gozen (go-zen) and gogo (go-go) respectively. Always write gogo or gozen before the time in a sentence. This is a rule for using these words. See the following examples:

Watashi wa mainichi gozen shichi ji ni okimasu. (Every day I wake up at 7:00 a.m.) Kinou gogo kuji ni bangohan o tabemashita. (Yesterday I had my dinner at 9:00 p.m.)

Another set of words which you should have information about are chyoudo and han. chyoudo (cyo-u-do) means exact. This word is used while telling the exact time. Han means half. Always remember that han is not used for 30 minutes only, it is used when we want to say -- hours and 30 minutes. Cyoudo always comes before the time in a sentence. Han always comes immediately after the hour word in a sentence. Following is the example where both chyoudo and han words have been used:

Gakkou wa chyoudo kuji ni hajimemasu. (The scool begins exactly at 9oclock.) Kaigi wa gozen jyuujihan ni arimasu. (The meeting is at 10:30 a.m.)

Following is the table which gives you the time using the word han:

A word kan is also used in relation with time. Kan is used to show the time duration. Kan always comes after the time phrase. E.g.: Uchi kara gakkou made nanjikan gurai khakari masu ka. (How much time do you approximately need to go from home to school?) Ichijikan gurai kakarimasu. (I require approximately one hour.) The word gurai (gu-ra-i) means approximately. Another word similar to gurai is goro (go-ro) which also means approximately. The difference between these two words is that gurai is used when we are talking about time duration. Whereas, goro is used when we are talking about the time. E.g.

Ichijikan gurai (Approximately one hour.) Ichiji goro (Approximately at 1oclock.)

Japanese doesn't have a simple phrase for "quarter-hour" or "15 minutes". Therefore it makes use of the words " mae (ma-e) and sugi (su-gi). Mae means before and Sugi means after. These two words are used to tell the time in minutes. An important thing to remember is that sugi is used to tell minutes between 1to 44 minutes whereas; mae is used for minutes between 46 and 59. These two words are always used after the time. E.g.:

Ima san ji jyuu ni fun sugi desu. (It is 12 minutes after 3:00) in other words it is 3:12. Ima yo ji jyuu ippun mae desu. (It is 11 minutes before 4:00) in other words it is 3:49.

To ask "What time is it now?" in Japanese, use the sentence Ima nan-ji desu ka (i-ma nan-ji de-su ka). Nan ji means what time. Japanese schedules usually follow the 24-hour system. For example, 1-ji (ee-chee-jee) means 1 a.m., and 13-ji Qooo-sahn-jee) means 1 p.m. All you need to do is say the number and add -ji to the end. This system eliminates a.m./p.m. ambiguity, so you don't need to say gozen or gogo. The particle ni is a very important part while talking about time. The ni particle is used to specify the exact time. To ask questions related to exact time, always use particle ni in the question and also while answering the question particle ni has to be a part of the sentence. Make sure you place the particle after the time phrase. Kara (ka-ra) which means from and made (ma-de) which means till or until is also used while talking about time. These two words always come after the time in the sentence. Following are the examples which make use of kara and made :

Kaigi wa nan-ji kara desu ka. Ni-ji kara desu. (ka-i-gi wa nan-ji ka-ra de-su ka. ni-ji ka-ra de-su; From what time is the meeting? From 2:00.) Kaigi wa nan-ji made desu ka. San-ji made desu. (ka-i-gi wa nan-ji ma-de de-su ka. san-ji ma-de de-su; Until what time is the meeting? Until 3:00.) Konsato wa nan-ji ni hajimarimasu ka. San-ji ni hajimarimasu.(kon-sa-to wa nan-ji ni ha-ji-ma-ri-ma-su ka. san-ji ni ha-ji-ma-ri-ma-su; What time does the concert start? It starts at 3:00.) Eiga wa 11-ji kara 12-ji made desu. (ei-ga wa jyuu-i-chi-ji ka-ra jyuu-ni-ji ma-de de-su; The movie is from 11:00 to 12:00.) If you don't want to express an exact time, you can estimate the time of day by using the following terms: asa (a-sa; morning) hiru (hi-ru; noon) ban (ban; evening) mayonaka (ma-yo-na-ka; midnight)

SMALL TALK IN JAPANESE Breaking the ice and asking questions Small talk usually starts with sumimasen (soo-mee-mah-sehn; excuse me). You use this word to break the ice. Then you usually need to ask a few questions to strike up a conversation. If you can form a sentence, you can

easily form a question in Japanese. Unlike in English, you don't have to invert the subject and the verb when you ask a question in Japanese. How you form a question depends on the answer you're expecting. Are you expecting "yes" or "no," or are you expecting a specific piece of information, like a name, place, or date? To form a yes/no question, just add the question particle ka (kah) at the end of the statement and use a rising intonation, as you do in English. (See Chapter 2 for more on particles.) For example:

Jon wa kimasu (John wah kee-mah-soo) means "John will come." Jon wa kimasu ka (john wah kee-mah-soo kah) means "Will John come?"

To ask a question that expects specific information in response, use a question word in addition to the particle ka at the end of the sentence. Just like in English, different question words are used depending on what's being asked, as shown in below table. Question Words Question Word dare doko donata dore do ikura itsu nani Pronunciation dah-ree doh-koh doh-nah-tah doh-reh dohh ee-koo-rah ee-tsoo nah-nee Translation who (informal) where who (formal) which one how how much when what

You can use these simple ice-breaking questions to make small talk:

Doko ni ikimasu ka. (doh-koh nee ee-kee-mah-soo kah; Where are you going?) Ima, nan-ji desu ka. (ee-mah, nahn-jee deh-soo kah; What time is it now?) Mein Sutorito wa doko desu ka. (meh-een soo-toh-reee-toh wah doh-koh deh-soo kah; Where is Main Street?)

Talking about the Weather The tenki (tehn-kee; weather) is a universally neutral topic. On a clear day, try starting a conversation with Ii tenki desu ne (eee tehn-kee deh-soo neh; It's nice today, isn't it?). The following adjectives describe temperature and humidity:

atatakal (ah-tah-tah-kah-ee; warm) atsui (ah-tsoo-ee; hot) mushi-atsui (moo-shee-ah-tsoo-ee; muggy) samui (sah-moo-ee; cold) suzushii (soo-zoo-sheee; cool)

In a polite/neutral or formal context, add desu (deh-soo; to be) to the end of the adjective. Adjectives always sound polite when they end in desu. For example, you can say Atsui desu (ah-tsoo-ee deh-soo; It's hot) or Atsui desu ne (ah-tsoo-ee deh-soo neh; It's hot, isn't it?). You can also work these nouns into weather-related conversations:

ame (ah-meh; rain)

arashi (ah-rah-shee; storm) hare (hah-reh; clear sky) kumori (koo-moh-ree; cloudy sky) yuki (yoo-kee; snow)

Ordering fast food

Whether you're ordering piza (pee-zah; pizza) with friends or grabbing a sandoicchi (sahn-doh-eet-chee; sandwich) for lunch, you probably spend a fair amount of money enriching fast-food chains. This section tells you how to chumon suru (chooo-mohn soo-roo; order) a hanbaga (hahn-bahh-gahh; hamburger) and furaido poteto (foo-rahee-doh poh-teh-toh; fries) in Japanese. Check out some other popular fast-food dishes:

chikin baga (chee-keen bahh-gahh; chicken patty) chizu baga (cheee-zoo bahh-gahh; cheeseburger) furaido chikin (foo-rah-ee-doh chee-keen; fried chicken) hotto doggu (hoht-toh dohg-goo; hot dog) miruku sheku (mee-roo-koo shehh-koo; milkshakes)

Now that you have a handle on the menu, practice conjugating the verb chumon suru (chooo-mohn soo-roo; to order). This term is actually a combination of the noun chumon (order) and the verb suru (to do), so you conjugate just the suru part. Yes, it's an irregular verb. Form chumon suru chumon shinai chumon shi chumon shite Pronunciation chooo-mohn soo-roo chooo-mohn shee-nah-ee chooo-mohn shee chooo-mohn shee-teh

You may have to answer a couple of questions when you order at a fast-food joint:

Omochi kaeri desu ka (oh-moh-chee kah-eh-ree deh-soo kah) means "Will you take it home?" or "To go?" Kochira de omeshiagari desu ka (koh-chee-rah deh oh-meh-shee-ah-gah-ree deh-soo kah) means "Will you eat here?" or "For here?"

If you hear one of these questions, just answer hai (hah-ee; yes) or ie (eee-eh; no). Making dinner reservations The Japanese are gourmets. They often line up in front of popular restaurants, and they don't mind waiting an hour or more. If you don't want to wait in line, make a yoyaku (yoh-yah-koo; reservation) over the phone. The Japanese say "to make a reservation" by saying "to do a reservation," which is yoyaku o suru (yoh-yah-koo oh soo-roo). Remember that suru (soo-roo; to do) is an irregular verb. Conjugate yoyaku o suru. Because yoyaku is a noun, all you have to worry about is the suru part. Form yoyaku o suru yoyaku o shinai yoyaku o shi yoyaku o shite Pronunciation yoh-yah-koo oh soo-roo yoh-yah-koo oh shee-nah-ee yoh-yah-koo oh shee yoh-yah-koo oh shee-teh

First, tell the restaurant's host when you want to arrive. (Chapter 3 explains the basics of how to tell time in Japanese, including the concepts of a.m., p.m., and o'clock.) Below table provides the time ranges you're likely to need when making dinner reservations. A Timetable Time 6:00 6:15 6:30 6:45 7:00 8:00 9:00 Japanese roku-ji roku-ji jugo-fun roku-ji han roku-ji yonjugo-fun roh-koo-jee shichi-ji hachi-ji ku-ji Pronunciation roh-koo-jee roh-koo-jee jooo-goh-foon roh-koo-jee hahn yohn-jooo-goh-foon shee-chee-jee hah-chee-jee koo-jee

After you establish a time, let the host know how many people are in your party. Japanese uses a counter (a short suffix that follows a number) to count people. Which counter you use depends on the item you're counting. For example, you can't just say go (goh; five) when you have five people in your party. You have to say go-nin (gohneen), because -nin (neen) is the counter for people. But watch out for the irregular hitori (hee-toh-ree; one person) and futari (foo-tah-ree; two people). Below table can help you count people. Expressing a Number of People Number of People 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Japanese hitori futari san-nin yo-nin go-nin roku-nin nana-nin hachi-nin kyu-nin ju-nin Pronunciation hee-toh-ree foo-tah-ree sahn-neen yoh-neen goh-neen roh-koo-neen nah-nah-neen hah-chee-neen kyooo-neen jooo-neen

Here's how a typical conversation about a restaurant reservation may go: Host: Maido arigato gozaimasu. (mah-ee-doh ah-ree-gah-tohh goh-zah-ee-mah-soo; Thank you for your patronage. How can I help you?) Makoto: Ano, konban, yoyaku o shitai-n-desu ga.(ah-nohh, kohn-bahn, yoh-yah-koo oh shee-tah-een-deh-soo gah; I would like to make a reservation for tonight.) Host: Hai, arigato gozaimasu. Nan-ji goro. (hah-ee, ah-ree-gah-tohh goh-zah-ee-mah-soo. nahn-jee goh-roh; Yes, thank you. About what time?) Makoto: Shichi-ji desu. (shee-chee-jee deh-soo; 7:00, please.) Host: Hai. Nan-nin-sama. (hah-ee. nahn-neen-sah-mah; Certainly. How many people?) Makoto: Go-nin desu. (goh-neen deh-soo; Five people.) In Japanese, you often form a statement by using -n-desu (n-deh-soo) in conversation. The effect of -n-desu is to encourage your partner to respond. Saying Yoyaku o shitai-n-desu (yoh-yah-koo oh shee-tah-een-deh-soo; I'd like

to make a reservation) sounds much more inviting and friendly than saying Yoyaku o shitai desu because it shows your willingness to listen to the other person's comments. Use -n-desu in informal conversation but not in writing or public speech. When you follow a verb with -n-desu, the verb must be in the informal/plain form. Ending your statement with the particle ga (gah; but), as in Yoyaku o shitai-n-desu ga, makes it clear that you're waiting for the other person to reply.

Japanese pronouns
Pronouns are convenient shorthand for nouns that both English and Japanese make good use of. Check out the following instruction, where all the pronouns are italicized.

Demonstrative Pronouns Demonstrative pronouns seem like much too big a term to describe four little words: this, that, these, here, there and those. You use demonstrative pronouns to "point" verbally. In Japanese, demonstrative pronouns are just a little more complicated than they are in English. Suppose you are the speaker and your girlfriend is the listener, and the two of you are sitting face to face at a cozy table in a restaurant. In this case, the half of the table on your side is your territory, and the half on your girlfriends side is her territory. All other tables in the restaurant are outside both your territories. With these boundaries drawn, you can use the following Japanese pronouns to various foods throughout the restaurant:

Kore (ko-re): This Sore (so-re): That Are (a-re): That over there

Kore is used for things in your territory. In other words, things, which you can see, touch and feel, are indicated by this pronoun. Sore is used for things in others territory. In other words, things, which you cannot touch but are near and can be seen clearly are indicated by this pronoun. Are is used for things outside both your territories. In other words, things, which cannot be touched and may be seen at a very far distance or may not be seen but the person has knowledge of its existence are shown by this pronoun. Do you get the idea? If you do, you can understand whose eating tako (ta-ko; octopus), whos eating ika (i-ka; squpid), and whos eating ebi (e-bi; shrimp) at the restaurant in the following dialogue: Sore wa ika desu ka. (Is that squid?) Iie, kore wa tako desu. Sore wa ika desu ka. (No, this one is octopus. Is that squid?) Hai, kore wa ika desu. (Yes this is squid.) Jya, are wan nan desu ka. (Ok then, what is that over there?) Are wa ebi desu. (That over there is shrimp.) It is always observed that, when a question is asked in kore it can be answered in either kore or sore depending upon the distance of the person from the object. In the same way if the question asked is in sore then it should be answered in either sore or kore depending upon the distance of the person from the object. However, when the

question is asked in Are then the answer should always be only in Are. Another very important word to be remembered is dore (do-re) meaning "which". Dore is a common question word for kore, sore and are. For example: Nihongo no hon wa dore desu ka. (Which is the book of Japanese language?) Sore wa nihongo no hon desu. (That is the book of Japanese Language.) In Japanese pronouns, there are other three pronouns, which have the same meaning as kore, sore and are but have different usage. The other three words are:

Kono (ko-no): This Sono (so-no): That Ano (a-no): That over there

Ko/no/ sono/ Ano are known as Demonstrative nouns. The basic difference between the use of Kore/ Sore/ Are and Kono/ Sono/ Ano is as follows:

Kono/ Sono/ Ano is used to when we talk about a particular thing or object. It gives importance to only 1 thing. Whereas, Kore/ Sore/ Are is used to point out things. It is used when we talk about objects in a generalized way. Look at the following example:

Kore wa hon desu. (This is a book.) Kono hon wa nihongo no desu. (This book is of Japanese language.) In the first sentence, we are pointing out a book. Here we are not specifying anything else about the book or in other words, we are not giving any importance to the book. On the other hand, in the second statement we are specifying that the book is of Japanese language only.

Kore/ Sore/ Are is used only when we are talking about some object or thing. On the other hand, Kono/ Sono/ Ano is used for both people and objects. Kore/ Sore/ Are is immediately followed by either "wa" or "ga" particle. Kono/ Sono/ Ano is followed by a common noun.

For example:

Kore wa kuruma desu. (This is a car.) Kono kuruma wa akai desu. (This is a red car.)

The common question word for Kono/ Sono/ Ano is Dono (do-no) meaning "which". Japanese Personal Pronouns The first-person singular pronoun in Japanese is watashi (wa-ta-shi), which corresponds to the English I/ me. Japanese personal pronouns have other pronouns, which you can find in below table.

The first-person singular pronoun is typically watashi, but you can say I/me in more than one way:

The formal version is watakushi (wa-ta-ku-shi). In informal and neutral contexts, men say boku (bo-ku). In informal contexts, some men say ore (a-re), some older men say washi (wa-shi), and some young women say atashi (a-ta-shi).

The first-person pronouns are repeatedly used in conversation, but other pronouns are not. In fact, the use of anata (a-na-ta; you, singular) is almost forbidden. A person who says anata sounds snobbish, arrogant, or just foreign. So how can you ask a question like Anata wa ikimasu ka. (Will you go?) without using anata? One strategy is to drop the pronoun. Just use the verb and the question particle: Ikimasu ka [Will (you) go (there)?]. Another strategy is to use the person's name repeatedly. You can ask Yoko this question: Yoko-san wa ikimasu ka (Is Yoko going?), which actually means "Yoko, are you going there?"

Japanese Adjectives
As in English, Japanese adjectives are placed either before a noun (a good book, for example) or at the end of a sentence (The book is good). All Japanese adjectives end in either "i "or "na" when placed before a noun. Adjectives that end in "i" are called i-ending adjectives or ikeiyoushi (i-kei-you-shi). Adjectives that end in "na" are called na-ending adjectives or nakeiyoushi (na-kei-youshi). There is no clear distinction between the two groups in terms of meaning. For example, taka-i and koka-na both mean "expensive," but one is an ikeiyoushi and the other is a nakeiyoushi. Look at some adjectives that modify the noun hon (ho-n; book):

kirei-na hon (ki-rei-na hon; a beautiful book). koka-na hon (ko-ka-na hon; an expensive book). omoshiro-i hon (o-mo-shi-ro-i hon; an interesting book). taka-i hon (ta-ka-i hon; an expensive book).

You conjugate English adjectives based on whether they're comparative or superlative, like tall, taller, and tallest, but you conjugate Japanese adjectives based on different factors, such as tense. Look at the following Japanese sentence structure, all of which include either taka-i (ta-ka-i; expensive), an i-ending adjective, or koka-na (koka-na; expensive), a na-ending adjective:

Are wa koka jya arimasen. (a-re wa ko-ka jya a-ri-ma-sen; That over there is not expensive.) Hanbaga wa taka-ku arimasen. (han-ba-ga wa ta-ka-ku a-ri-ma-sen; Hamburgers are not expensive.) Koka-na nekkuresu o kaimashita.(ko-ka na nekku-resu o ka-i-ma-shi-ta; I bought an expensive necklace.) Kore wa taka-katta. (ko-re wa ta-ka-katta; This was expensive.) Taka-i hon o kaimashita. (ta-kai hon o kai-ma-shi-ta; I bought an expensive book.)

As mentioned earlier tenses of an adjective is one of the factors to be considered while conjugating adjectives. Following are the rules in which you can change the tense and the way you use them:For ikeiyoushi (i-ending adjectives/ I adjectives): 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Present/ Future Affirmative Tense: Atsui- Hot Present/ Future Negative Tense: While changing an i-ending adjective into Present/ Future negative tense just remove the ending "i" and add "kunai". As in - Atsui Atsu + kunai Atsukunai: Not hot Past Affirmative Tense: While changing an i-ending adjective into past tense, remove "i" and add "katta" to it. For Example Atsui Astu + Katta Atsukatta Was hot Past Negative Tense: While changing an i-ending adjective into past tense, remove "i" and add "kunakatta" to it. As in Atsui Astu + kunakatta Atsukunakatta Was not hot While joining i-ending Adjective: While join the first ikeiyoushi to any other ikeiyoushi or nakeiyoushi in the sentence, the "i" is removed and "kute" is added to it. Following is the example for both: Kuruma wa furukute takhai desu. (The car is old and expensive.) Denshya wa yasukute benri desu. (The train is cheap and convenient.) In the first statement, an ikeiyoushi is joined to another ikeiyoushi. Whereas, in the second sentence, an ikeiyoushi is joined to a nakeiyoushi. When a verb comes after i-ending Adjective: When a verb comes immediately after i-ending adjective, the "i" is removed and "ku" is added to it. For example Watashiwa mai asa hayaku okimasu. (I wake up early every morning.) For nakeiyoushi (na-ending aadjectives/ Na adjectives): The nakeiyoushi follows the rule of "desu".

6.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

6.

Present/ Future Affirmative Tense: Nigiyakana (desu) - Crowded Present/ Future Negative Tense: While changing a na-ending adjective into Present/ Future negative tense just remove the ending "na" and add "dewa arimasen". As in - Nigiyakana Nigiyaka + dewa arimasen Nigiyakadewa arimasen: Not crowded Past Affirmative Tense: While changing a na-ending adjective into past tense, remove "na" and add "deshita" to it. For Example Nigiyakana Nigiyaka + deshita Nigiyakadeshita: Was crowded Past Negative Tense: While changing a na-ending adjective into past tense, remove "na" and add "dewa arimasen deshita" to it. As in Nigiyakana Nigiyaka + dewa arimasen deshita Nigiyakadewa arimasen deshita: Was not crowded While joining na-ending Adjective: While join the first nakeiyoushi to any other ikeiyoushi or nakeiyoushi in the sentence, the "na" is removed and "de" is added to it. Following is the example for both: Kono hito wa jyouzude yuumei desu. (This person is expert and famous.) Kanji wa kantande omoshiroi desu. (Kanji is easy and interesting.) In the first statement, a nakeiyoushi is joined to another nakeiyoushi. Whereas, in the second sentence, a nakeiyoushi is joined to an ikeiyoushi. When a verb comes after na-ending Adjective: When a verb comes immediately after na-ending adjective, the "na" is removed and "ni" is added to it. For example Michiwa nigiyaka ni narimashita. (The road had become crowded.)

Some adjectives are irregular, which means they don't conjugate the same as other adjectives. The irregular adjective used most frequently is ii (i-i; good). The stem "i" becomes "yo" in all the forms except the present affirmative form, regardless of whether you place it at the end of a sentence or right before a noun. Take a look at the following examples:

ii hon desu (i-i hon de-su; is a good book) ii desu (i-i de-su; is good) yokatta desu (yo-katta de-su; was good) yoku arimasen deshita (yo-ku ari-ma-sen de-shi-ta; wasn't good) yoku arimasen (yo-ku ari-ma-sen; isn't good)

Table below lists the ikeiyoushi and nakeiyoushi adjectives, along with its meaning.

It is very important to know that when to specify the "na" of the nakeiyoushi in the sentence and when not to. Whenever the "na" adjective occurs at the end of the sentence at that time "na" is omitted. On the other hand, when a noun follows a "na" adjective then in such a sentence the "na" has to be written. Following examples will help you understand the difference. Kono machi wa nigiyakana machi desu. (This city is a crowded city.) Denshya wa benri desu. (The train is convenient.)

By now, you must have mastered the use of adjectives in Japanese. While learning the na-ending adjective you will observe that there are some, which sound like an i-ending adjective, but you have to remember that they belong to na-ending adjective list. So, start using Japanese adjectives in your sentences as frequently as possible.

Japanese Verb
Verbs as we all know are "action words". Like in all other languages of the world, Japanese verb hold a very important place in Japanese grammar. Verbs in Japanese language are called "doushi" It is a rule in Japanese language that a sentence should end with a verb. The sentence structure is always [Subject] [Object] [Verb]. Verbs in Japanese are divided into three groups, which are

Group 1 called "godandoushi". Group 2 called "ichidandoushi. Group 3 called "fukusoku".

The meaning of the word "godandoushi" is: "go" means five; "dan" means steps/ stairs; "doushi" means verbs. Therefore, this means that the verbs from this group change their pattern/ form 5 times. E.g. the word iku meaning "to go" can be changed into ika, iki, iku, ike and ikou. The meaning of the word "ichidan doushi" is: "ichi" means one; "dan" means steps/ stairs; "doushi" means verbs.

Therefore, the pattern of the verbs in this group changes only once. The third group that is called "fukusoku" consists of only two verbs. These two verbs do no follow any rules to change their pattern. Their patterns are already fixed and do not undergo any changes. Japanese verbs are of two types namely plain form and polite form. All the above three groups of verbs are included in both these types. Polite form of the verb is further divided into four forms which are "masu kei (masu form)", "masen kei (masen form)", "kakokei (mashita form)", "masendeshita kei (masendeshita form)". "Kei" in English means "form". When a verb has its end as "masu" then it is called as the "masu form. This form is the present/ future affirmative tense or a verb. In the same way when a verb ends in "masen" it is called a "masen form". This is the present/ future negative tense of a verb. A verb ending with "mashita" is called "mashita form. This is the past affirmative tense of a verb. Finally, a verb ending in "masen deshita" is called as a "masen deshita form". This is the past negative tense of a verb. The polite form is also divided into 5 forms namely the root verb or dictionary form, "te kei" (te form), "ta kei" (ta form), "nai kei" (nai form), "naide kei" (naide form). "te kei" is used as present/ future tense. This for of verb has many different uses in grammar. Verbs of this form end either in "te" or in "de". "ta kei" is used as past tense and is used in different ways in Japanese grammar. The ending of this form of verb is always "ta". "nai kei" is used as a negation and end in "nai". "naide kei" has only one use and ends in "nai de". Another form of verb that is not a part of either the plain form or polite form is the stem form of the verb.

Te form of Japanese Verb: While changing a verb into "te form" there is different rules for different groups. The verbs in this form end either in "te" or in "de". We always need to consider the dictionary form of a verb while changing it into the "te form". In case of group 1

If the end of the root verb is either "u", "tsu" or "ru" then remove that ending and add "tte". In other words, remove u, tsu, ru respectively and add a small tsu and te. Here the rule of double consonants plays a role. E.g. kau (to buy) - katte If the root verb ends with either with "mu", "bu" or "nu" then remove that end and replace it by adding "nde". In other words, remove "mu", "be", "nu" respectively and add the nasal sounf "n" and "de". Here the rule of nasal sound "n" comes into action. E.g. Yomu (To read) Yonde If the root verb ends in "ku" then remove "ku" and add "ite". E.g. kiku (To listen) kiite If the root verb ends in "gu" then remove "gu" and add "ide". E.g. Oyogu (To swim) oyoide If the root verb ends in "su" then remove "su" and add "shite". E.g. kasu (To lend) kashite

In case of group 2 the only rule to follow for all the verbs included in this group is, remove "ru" from the root verb form and add "te" at the end. E.g. miru (To see) mite In case of Group 3 as there are only two verbs, their form is as follows:

Suru (To do) Shite Kuru (To come) Kite

It is very important to learn the rules for group 1. Comparatively rule for group 2 is very easy and group 3 is the easiest. Ta Form of Japanese verb: Once you are clear with how to change a verb into "te" form then it is very easy to change the verbs into "ta" form. "Ta" form is the past tense of Japanese verbs in plain form. The rule for group 1 verbs is, first change the verb into "te" form. Next step will be just replacing the end "te" to "ta" and in case of "de" replacing it by "da". E.g.

kau (to buy) katte katta Oyogu (To swim) oyoide Oyoida In case of group 2 just remove "te" and add "ta". In other words, add "ta" at the end of the masu base form of the verbs of this group. E.g. tabe (to eat) tabeta In case of group 3, "shite" becomes "shita" and in the same way, "kite" become "kita" Nai Form of Japanese verb: A Japanese verb when used in the "nai form" indicates some negative meaning of the sentence. This form also has different rules for each group. Again, here also we have to first consider the dictionary form of verbs irrespective of the group to which they belong. Lets see each group one by one. In group1, first convert the verb into its dictionary form. All the "u" sound consonants should be removed and all the "a" sound should be added. This means that ku, su, tsu, nu, hu, mu, ru, gu, zu, bu and pu will be replaced by ka, sa, ta, na, ha, ma, ra, ga, za, ba and pa respectively. There is only one exception for "u" ending root verb. The verbs having root verbs ending with "u" will be replaced by "wa" and not "a". The last step would be to add "nai" to all the "a" ending verbs. E.g. kau (To buy) kawa kawanai Wakaru (To understand) wakara- Wakaranai In group2, directly add nai to the stem form of the verb. This applies to all the verbs, which come under group 2. E.g. Akeru (To open) ake akenai The "nai form" of the two verbs of group 3 is "shinai" and "konai". As the verbs of this group do not follow any rules, they have to be learnt as given.

Importants of plain form of japanese verb Different level of Japanese language is spoke with different people based on factors like the relationship the speaker shares with the listener, with seniors, with friends and with family members. The polite form of verbs is used in formal conversations. As we know that the plain form of Japanese verbs include the dictionary form or the root verb form of verbs, the "te" form, the "ta" form, the "nai" form and the "nai de" form of verbs. We have already discussed about the uses of dictionary form of verbs and the way to convert a given verb into dictionary form. In this lesson, we will move further and learn the different uses of the remaining plain forms of Japanese verbs like "te" form, "ta" form, "nai" form and "nai de" form. Uses of "te" form of Japanese verb: This form of Japanese verbs is called "te" form because the verbs end either in "te" or in "de". "Te" form has many different uses, which have been listed below along with some examples. 1. "te" form of verb when used along with "kara" means after doing this I do that. The pattern is "te" form + kara. E.g. Watashi wa benkyou wo shite kara terebi wo mimasu. ( I will study and then watch television.) In this form, the first action has to be completed and then only the second action starts. 1. The sentence pattern "te" form + kudasai means please do this. Here the "te" form of the verb is added to kudasai. This is a form used while requesting someone to do something for you. E.g. Hayaku aruite kudasai. (Please walk fast.) 2. "te" form of verb when added to imasu forms a sentence pattern "te" form + imasu. This pattern indicates the present continuous tense. In other words, the action is still going on or still taking place. It is similar to the "ing" form of the English grammar. E.g.

Ima ame ga futte imasu. (It is raining just now.) 3. "Te" form is also used to show that by doing this action or using this I do this action. The following example will make the meaning clear to you: Hashi wo tsukatte watashi wa ramen wo tabemasu. (By using chopsticks, I eat noodles.) Here by using the chopsticks I perform the action of eating. Present perfect tense is also shown by using the "te" form of verb. The difference between present perfect tense and present perfect tense is that in case of present continuous, the action is taking place in front of us and it is not yet completed. The action is still taking place. In case of Present perfect tense, the action has taken place and has been completed but its results are still being seen by us and have not undergone any changes. E.g. Ari san wa megane wo kakete imasu. (Mr. Ari is wearing spectacles.) Another use of the "te" form of Japanese verbs is to show habitual actions. By "habitual actions", we mean to say that the actions, which you have been, doing since a long, time and have got used to it or have got an habit of it. E.g.: Watashi wa mai nichi asagohan no ato de shinbun wo yonde imasu. (Everyday after breakfast I read the newspaper.) In Japanese grammar, "te" form is also used as a conjunction. The conjunction is used to show the actions which are done in a particular order or sequence. In short the "te" form shows sequential actions. E.g.: Watashi wa asa shichi ji ni okite, asagohan wo tabete, hachi ji ni daigaku e ikimashita. (I woke up at 8oclock in the morning, ate my breakfast and went to school.) In the example, we will see that "te" for has been used to describe the actions which have taken place but in a proper sequence. Another important use of "te" form is to describe how a particular action is performed. E.g. Sensei wa itsumo isu ni suwatte oshiemasu. (The teacher always sits in a chair and teaches.) In the above example we will see that the action of teaching is done by sitting in the chai. Hence, the "te" form shows us the way in which the teacher performs the action of teaching. "te" form is also used to give reasons. It means "because of/ due to" in English. However, this form is not applicable to all the verbs. The form is used to show things which occure or take place unknowingly, also to verbs, which display feelings, like getting bored, falling ill, becoming happy etc. E.g.: Takusan shigoto wo shite tsukaremashita. (Because of lots of work I am tired.) Uses of "ta" form of Japanese verb: This form of Japanese verbs is called "ta" form because the verbs end with the "ta" consonant. In plain form of Japanese verbs "ta" form means past tense. For the N5 level of JLPT there are very few uses of this form which the examinee need to learn. The uses are describes below along with appropriate examples. 1. When "ta" form of verb is followed by "ato de" it means after doing this. "ato" means after. The sentence pattern is "ta" form + ato de. E.g.:

Kinou eiga wo mita ato de uchi e kaerimashita. (Yesterday after watching the movie, I returned home.) 2. Another sentence pattern in Japanese grammar where "ta" form of a verb is used is the "tari tari shimasu" form. This form is used to show the various actions which we do but not compulsorily in a sequential order. Another use is to show opposite actions. E.g.: Kinou watashiwa tomodachi to attari eiga wo mitari gohan wo tabetari shimashita. (Yesterdai I met my friend, saw a movie, had food.) Mado wo aketari shimetari shimasu. (The window is opening and closing.) In the first example, I am talking about the things I did yesterday but does not compulsorily say that in this particular order only. In the second example, the opposite actions of opening and closing are described by using the "ta" form of the verb. Uses of "nai" and "nai de" forms of Japanese verb: The use of the "nai" and "nai de" for the N5 level is only one for each. "Nai" form indicates a negative sentence. The meaning of "nai de" form will be clear through its use. Example of nai form is: Kohi wo nomanai. (Do not drink Coffee.) "Nai de" is most of the times followed by "kudasai". The sentence form "nai de kudasai" maens please do not do. E.g.: Ookii koe de hanasanai de kudasai. (Please do not talk in loud voice.) All the above described verb forms and their uses are very important part of the syllabus of the N5 level of JLPT exam. The candidate should learn them thoroughly. The dokkai section of the exam has questions related to this grammar. Candidates, who have understood these uses and are clear with the concept, will have no difficulty in gaining full marks in these questions.

Dictionary form of Japanese Verbs

The Dictionary form of Japanese verbs is also called as the "root verb" form. Both these forms are the same. In Japanese language is form is called as "jishyokei" which means dictionary form. The root verb is one of the five parts of the plain form of the Japanese verb. It is also known as the informal form because it is used while talking informally with family and friends. This form of Japanese verb is very important and useful when we look up words in a dictionary. While searching for meaning of verbs in a Japanese dictionary, you will see that they are given in the root verb form or in other words, in dictionary form. There is a rule while changing the verbs from "masu base form" to "root verb form". The rule is different for all the three groups of verbs. The rule for the verbs of group 1 is that, all the "i" ending sounds will change to "u" ending sounds. In other words wording ending with i, ki, shi, chi, ni, hi, mi, ri, gi, bi and pi will change into u, ku, su, tsu, nu, hu, mu, ru, gu, bu and pu respectively. In case of the verbs of group 2 just add "ru" at the end of masu base of all the verbs. Group 3 does not follow any rules and since there are only two verbs, they are to be learnt as they are given.

Verb Iru And Aru

To tell someone that you have or possess something, use the verbs iru (ee-roo) and aru (ah-roo). Both mean "to exist," which shows possession in Japanese. You choose the verb according to whether the item you possess is animate or inanimate:

Iru shows possession of animate items, such as people and animals.

Aru is for inanimate items, such as books, money, plants, and houses.

So "I have a boyfriend" is Watashi wa boifurendo ga iru (wah-tah-shee wah bohh-ee-foo-rehn-doh gah ee-roo), which literally means "As for me, a boyfriend exists." Similarly, "Alison has money" is Alison wa okane ga aru (ahree-sohn wah oh-kah-neh gah ah-roo), which literally means "As for Alison, money exists." When speaking in a polite/neutral context, use the polite form of these verbs, imasu (ee-mah-soo) and arimasu (ah-ree-mah-soo), both of which are conjugated here. Iru is a ru-verb, but aru is slightly irregular; pay close attention to the negative form. Form iru inai i ite Form aru nai ari atte Pronunciation ee-roo ee-nah-ee ee ee-teh Pronunciation ah-roo nah-ee ah-ree aht-teh

Here are a few examples of having and not having:

Hima ga arimasen. (hee-mah gah ah-ree-mah-sehn; I don't have free time.) Petto ga imasu. (peht-toh gah ee-mah-soo; I have a pet.) Watashi wa kyodai ga imasen. (wah-tah-shee I wah kyohh-dah-ee gah ee-mah-sehn; I don't have siblings.) Chichi wa o-kane ga arimasu. (chee-chee wah oh-kah-neh gah ah-ree-mah-soo; My father has 1 money.)

MASU VERB Masu form of a verb is also called the stem form of a verb. This is the shortest form of a verb. The stem form cannot be used alone or individually, something has to be added to it to bring meaning to it. When masu is removed from the masu form the remaining part of the verb is the stem form. Hence the name masu base. This rule is same for all the three groups of Japanese verb. E.g.:

Mimasu (to see) mi Tabemasu (to eat) tabe Shimasu (to do) shi

As specified earlier the stem form of the verb cannot be used alone. Following are the uses of stem form of verb:1. When nagara is added to the verbs masu base it means while doing this I do this. In other words, it shows simultaneous actions that take place. The structure is always Masu base + nagara. E.g: Watashiwa ongaku o kikinagara benkyou o shimasu. (I listen to songs and study.) Here I am showing the two simultaneous action of listening to music and studying are shown by this sentence pattern. When tai desu is added to the masu base of a verb then it means want to do something. In other words, it shows the want of a person to do something. The structure is always masu base + tai desu. E.g.:

Meera san wa kuruma o kaitai desu. ( Ms. Meera wants to buy a car.) Therefore, Meeras want to buy a car is shown by this sentence pattern. Verbs masu base when joined to ni particle it shows the intension of a person in performing a particular action. The structure is always masu base + ni. E.g.: Watashiwa benkyo o shini nihon e ikimasu. ( I am going to Japan for studying.) In this example, my intention of going to Japan is for studying. The masu base of a verb is also used to join sentences. The following example will clearly shows you this use:Kimura san wa kiiroi seta wo ki, kuroi sukato wo haki, shiroi boushi wo khaburimashita. ( Miss Kimura is wearing a yellow sweater, a black skirt and a white cap.) Here instead of making three small sentences to describe what kimura is wearing only one sentence has been made by using the masu base of verbs.

WO or O particle

1.

2.

3.

4.

The "O" particle indicates the object on which the action takes place. E.g.: Watashi wa hon o yomimasu. (I read a book.) Here the action of reading is taking place on the book. Therefore, the object book has been indicated by "o" particle. When particle "o" is followed by the verb "Oru (Orimasu)", it means to get off from a vehicle. The name of the vehicle comes before "o orimasu" as "o" indicates the vehicle from which you are departing or getting off. E.g.: Watashiwa basu o orimasu. (I get off the bus.) In this example, the vehicle bus from which I am getting off is indicated by the "o" particle. This particle always comes before the verb demasu (to go out) & dekakemasu (to leave). Here the particle indicates the place from which we go away or depart. E.g.: Watashi wa goji ni uchi o dekakemashita. (I left home at 5oclock.) Here the place from which I am departing is home which is indicated by "o" particle. Following is the list of words along with which "o" particle always comes and the name of the place occurs before "o" particle:o Matsu- To wait o Yobu- To call o Aruku- To walk o Hashiru- To run o Tobu- To fly o Sanpo suru- To stroll

"o" particle is very easy to understand and use. Just memorize the above stated uses and meanings of the Japanese particle very thoroughly Talking about your regular activities To express that you do something regularly - run, play tennis, go to work, and so on - use the verb that expresses the activity and the verb iru (ee-roo; to exist), in that order. Make sure to conjugate the verb that expresses ihe action in the te-form. (See Chapter 2 for details oil the te-form.) You can leave the verb iru as it is or put it in the polite form, imasu (ee-mah-soo).

For example, you can combine the verbs hashiru (hah-shee-roo; to run) and iru to get hashitte iru (hah-sheet-teh ee-roo) or hashitte imasu (hah-sheet-teh ee-mah-soo). Both phrases mean that someone runs regularly, sort of like saying, "I run and exist every day." Be careful: hashitte iru can also be interpreted as "I'm in the middle of running." Which meaning the phrase takes on depends on the context. If you say mainichi (mah-ee-nee-chee; every day) before saying hashitte imasu, you obviously mean a regular activity: "I run every day." If you say ima (ee-mah; now), you mean "I'm in the middle of running now." The following sentences express regular actions:

Ken wa mainichi piza o tabete imasu. (kehn wah mah-ee-nee-chee pee-zah oh tah-beh-teh ee-mahsoo; Ken eats pizza every day.) Otdto wa kyonen kara daigaku ni itte imasu.(oh-tohh-toh wah kyoh-nehn kah-rah dah-ee-gah-koo nee eet-teh ee-mah-soo; My younger brother has been going to college since last year.) Otosan wa itsumo nete iru yo. (oh-tohh-sahn wah ee-tsoo-moh neh-teh ee-roo yoh; My dad is always sleeping.) Shujin wa maishu tenisu o shite imasu. (shoo-jeen wah mah-ee-shooo teh-nee-soo oh shee-teh eemah-soo; My husband plays tennis every week.")

Giving out your contact information After chatting with someone, you may want to contact him or her. below table lists the information you may want to collect. Contact Information Japanese jusho denwa bango denshi meru adoresu fakkusu bango Pronunciation jooo-shoh dehn-wah bahn-gohh dehn-shee mehh-roo ah-doh-reh-soo fahk-koo-soo bahn-gohh Translation address phone number e-mail address fax number

Exchanging meishi (mehh-shee; business cards) is also a good idea. These phrases are useful when exchanging contact information:

Denshi meru de renraku shimasu. (dehn-shee mehh-roo deh rehn-rah-koo shee-mah-soo; I'll contact you via e-mail.) Denwa bango wa nan desu fca. (dehn-wah bahn-gohh wah nahn deh-soo kah; What's your telephone number?) Denwa o shite kudasai. (dehn-wah oh shee-teh koo-dah-sah-ee; Please call me.) Jusho o oshiete kudasai. (jooo-shoh oh oh-shee-eh-teh koo-dah-sah-ee; Please tell me your address.) Kore wa watashi no meishi desu. (koh-reh wah wah-tah-shee noh mehh-shee deh-soo; This is my business card.) Yokattara, renraku kudasai. (yoh-kaht-tah-rah, rehn-rah-koo koo-dah-sah-ee; Get in touch if you like.)

Use Of Verb Desu

Like the English verb to be, desu (deh-soo) expresses the identity or state of people and things. Desu is used in a construction, X wa Y desu (X wah Y deh-soo; X is Y). Instead of saying "X is Y," the Japanese say "X Y is." The particle wa (wah) is the topic particle discussed earlier in this chapter. Desu follows either a noun or an adjective. For example, Ototo wa gakuse desu (oh-tohh-toh wah gahkoo-sehh deh-soo) means "My little brother is a student." Watashi wa genki desu (wah-tah-shee wah gehn-kee deh-soo) means "I am fine." Now you know why many Japanese sentences end in desu. Conjugation-wise, desu doesn't look like any other verb. The reason is that desu didn't start out as a stand-alone verb. It was the combination of the particle de, the verb aru (ah-roo; to exist), and the polite suffix -masu. The table below shows the patterns of desu. To help you see the point, I use the same noun gakuse (gahkoo-sehh; student) in each example.

Formal Form of Noun Plus Desu Japanese gakusei desu gakusei ja arimasen gakusei deshita gakusei ja arimasen deshita Japanese gakusei da gakusei janai gakusei datta gakusei ja nakatta Pronunciation gah-koo-sehh deh-soo gah-koo-sehh jah ah-ree-mah-sehn gah-koo-sehh deh-shee-tah gah-koo-sehh jah ah-ree-mah-sehn deh-sheetah Informal Form of Noun Plus Desu Pronunciation gah-koo-sehh dah gah-koo-sehh jah nah-ee gah-koo-sehh daht-tah gah-koo-sehh jah nah-kaht-tah Translation is a student isn't a student was a student wasn't a student Translation is a student isn't a student was a student wasn't a student

Ja (jah), which you see in the negative forms in the above Tables, is the contraction of dewa (dehwah).Most Japanese people use ja in everyday conversation, but they use dewa occasionally. Be prepared to hear either one.

Tenses In Japanese
Japanese verbs have just two tenses: present and past. The dictionary form is present tense. Present tense refers to both present and future, which makes the verb taberu not just "I eat," but also "I will eat." The context usually tells you which meaning the verb is expressing. As in English, the present tense often doesn't refer to this very moment but to some habitual action, such as "I eat dinner every day at 6:00." If you know a verb's te-form, expressing that verb in the past tense is easy. You simply change the final vowel from an e to an a. For example, tabete (tah-beh-teh; eat) becomes tabeta (tah-beh-tah; ate), and nonde (nohndeh; drink) becomes nonda (nohn-dah; drank). To say that you didn't do something in the past, you need to fashion verbs into their negative past forms. Simply take the negative form, drop the final vowel, i, and add -katta. For example, tabenai (tah-beh-nah-ee; don't eat) becomes tabenakatta (tah-beh-nah-kaht-tah; didn't eat). Cool, huh? Speaking politely In Japanese, the verbs you choose say a lot about you. Although using the plain/informal verb form when you talk with close friends or family members is fine, if you use them in a business situation or with strangers, the listener may think you're unsophisticated or even rude. Judging the situation and knowing what level of formality is appropriate is an integral part of speaking Japanese. Making polite/neutral verb forms is easy. You just have to remember four verb endings (one each for the affirmative present, negative present, affirmative past, and negative past) and add one of them to the end of the verb's stem form.

For For For For

affirmative present verbs, add -masu. negative present verbs, add -masen. affirmative past verbs, add -mashita. negative past verbs, add -masen deshita.

Below the table gives you some examples. Making Polite/Neutral Verb Forms tabeni [ru](eat) Stem tabe miru[ru](watch) mi nomu[u](drink) nomi

Affirmative Present Negative Present Affirmative Past Negative Past

tabemasu tabemasen tabemashita tabemasen deshita

mimasu mimasen mimashita mimasen deshita

nomimasu nomimasen nomimashita nomimasen deshita

Enhancing Verbs With suffixes Japanese has a rich inventory of verb suffixes that add either concrete meaning or subtle implications. Different suffixes require different verb forms: plain/ informal form (dictionary form, negative form, past tense, or negative past tense), stem form, or te-form. You may think that I'm slipping a whole new form in on you, but plain/informal form is just the term I use to indicate that the verb form isn't the stem or the te-form. Dictionary form, negative form, past tense, and negative past tense verbs all follow the same pattern, so I call them all the plain/informal form. Note:In this table, I use hyphens to show you the boundary between the verb and the verb suffix, but you pronounce the verbs as one word or phrase. Common Verb Suffixes Meaning/Function Suffix Example Translation Suffixes that Follow Plain/Informal Forms should probability possibility person because noun-maker things time intention -beki desu -desho -kamo shiremasen -hito -kara -koto -mono -toki -tsumori desu taberu- beki desu taberu-desho taberu- kamo shiremasen taberu-hito taberu-kara taberu-koto taberu-mono taberu-toki taberu-tsumori desu 1 should eat. I'll probably eat. 1 might eat. the person who eats because 1 eat the act of eating things to eat when 1 eat 1 plan to eat.

Suffixes that Follow Stem Forms while purpose difficulty overdoing desire -nagara -ni -nikui -sugiru -tai tabe-nagara tabe-ni tabe-nikui tabe-sugiru tabe-tai while eating in order to eat It's hard to eat. 1 overeat. 1 want to eat.

Suffixes that Follow Te-forms doing a favor present perfect present progressive requesting attempt completion -ageru -aru -iru -kudasai -miru -shimau tabete-ageru tabete-aru tabete-iru tabete-kudasai tabete-miru tabete-shimau 1 eat for you. 1 have eaten. 1 am eating. Please eat. I'll try to eat. I finish eating.

Other Topics In Japanese

To ask "Where are you from?" say Dochira kara desu ka (doh-chee-rah kah-rah deh-soo kah). Dochira is the polite form of doko (doh-koh; where), and the particle kara means "from. To answer this question, replace dochira with a place name and eliminate the question particle ka. Take a look at these examples:

Watashi wa San Furanshisuko kara desu. (wah-I tah-shee wah sahn-foo-rahn-shee-soo-koh kah-rah deh-soo; I'm from San Francisco.) Boku wa Tokyo kara desu. (boh-koo wah tohh- kyohh kah-rah deh-soo; I am from Tokyo.)

The second speaker uses boku (boh-koo) instead of watashi (wah-tah-shee) when referring to himself. Men and boys often substitute boku for watashi to make the sentence less formal To say that you live somewhere, use the te-form of the u-verb sumu (soo-moo; to live/reside) and add the verb iru (ee-roo; to exist) right after it. For example, Tokyo ni sunde iru (tohh-kyohh nee soon-deh ee-roo) and its polite version, Tokyo ni sunde imasu (tohh-kyohh nee soon-deh ee-mah-soo), both mean "I live in Tokyo." Form sumu sumanai sumi sunde Pronunciation soo-moo soo-mah-nah-ee soo-mee soon-deh

Talking about Where you're going: When you strike up a conversation while traveling, talking about where you're from is usually followed by questions about where you're going. Asking someone where he or she is going is easy. Just replace the particle kara (kah-rah; from) in Dochira kara desu ka (doh-chee-rah kah-rah deh-soo kah; Where are you from?) with made (mah-deh; up to), and you get Dochira made desu ka, which means "Where are you heading to?" When someone asks you where you're going, you could say Sapporo made desu. (sahp-poh-roh mah-deh deh-soo; To Sapporo.) Talking about your family below table contains terms for family members. For each English term, two Japanese terms correspond - a polite term and a plain one. Which term you use depends on the context.

When you refer to someone else's family, use the polite term. To talk about your own family members to people outside the family, use the plain term. When you talk to older family members (other than your spouse) or when you talk about them in an informal way, use a polite term.

For example, you can call your mother by saying Okasan! Doko (oh-kahh-sahn doh-koh; Mom! Where are you?). Or you can ask your mom Okasan, otosan wa doko (oh-kahh-sahn, oh-tohh-sahn wah doh-koh; Mom, where is Dad?). Family Terms English family siblings parents father mother older brother Polite Term gokazoku(goh-kah-zoh-koo) gokyodai (goh-kyohh-dah-ee) goryoshin (goh-ryohh-sheen) otosan (oh-tohh-sahn) okasan (oh-kahh-sahn) onisan (oh-neee-sahn) Plain Term kazoku (kah-zoh-koo) kyodai (kyohh-dah-ee) ryoshin (ryohh-sheen) chichi (chee-chee) haha(hah-hah) ani (ah-nee)

older sister younger brother younger sister husband wife child son daughter grandfather grandmother uncle ojisan aunt

onesan (oh-nehh-sahn) ototo-san (oh-tohh-toh-sahn) imoto-san (ee-mohh-toh-sahn) goshujin (goh-shoo-jeen) okusan(oh-koo-sahn) kodomo-san (koh-doh-moh-sahn) musuko-san (moo-soo-koh-sahn) musume-san (moo-soo-meh-sahn) ojisan (oh-jeee-sahn) obasan(oh-bahh-sahn) (oh-jee-sahn) obasan(oh-bah-sahn)

ane(ah-neh) ototo (oh-tohh-toh) imoto (ee-mohh-toh) shujin (shoo-jeen) kanai (kah-nah-ee) kodomo (koh-doh-moh) musuko (moo-soo-koh) musume (moo-soo-meh) sofu (soh-foo) sobo(soh-boh) oji (oh-jee) oba (oh-bah)