Breakdown of Japanese Language

Written by Satyabrata Sarkar

Japanese might look difficult at first, but it’s made up of clear parts:

•Grammar: Japanese uses Subject-Object-Verb (SOV) order. For example, “I eat sushi” becomes “I sushi eat.”
•Particles: Small words like は (wa), を (wo), に (ni) show what each word is doing in a sentence.
•Vocabulary: Words come from:
Native Japanese words (和語 / Wago), Chinese words (漢語 / Kango), Foreign words (外来語 / Gairaigo).
•Writing: Japanese uses three scripts—Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji.
•Pronunciation: Japanese has simple sounds and a flat rhythm. Easy to say, but sometimes hard to understand deeper meanings.

Guide for the beginners to start learning Japanese

Start step by step, and it will become easier:
•Learn Hiragana and Katakana first. These are the basic scripts.
•Study Basic Grammar: Learn simple sentences and how to use particles.
•Learn Easy Words: Use flashcards or apps to remember useful words.
•Watch Japanese Shows: Anime, dramas, and YouTube help improve listening.
•Practice Speaking: Talk with native speakers online or through apps.

Introduction to Japanese Script

Japanese has 3 types of writing:
•Hiragana (ひらがな): For grammar, native words, and verb endings.
•Katakana (カタカナ): For foreign words like “coffee” (コーヒー), names, and sounds.
•Kanji (漢字): From Chinese, used for meaning. One kanji can have many readings.
Japanese sentences often mix all three.
Example: 私はカレーが好きです。 (I like curry.)

4. Best places to Learn Japanese in India*

You can study Japanese at top institutions like:
•Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Delhi – Offers BA, MA, and PhD.
•Japan Foundation, New Delhi – Language classes and culture events.
•University of Calcutta, Kolkata – Certificate and diploma courses.
•Visva-Bharati University, Santiniketan – Focus on language and culture.

Private Institutes:

Nihongo Center (Bangalore)
Mosai (Delhi)
ABK-AOTS Dosokai (Chennai)
Indo-Japan Business Council (Pune)

online classes:
Sahasra Education

Career opportunities in India for Japanese language learners*
Knowing Japanese can open up many jobs:

•Translator / Interpreter: Work in MNCs, embassies, or publishing houses.
•BPO / KPO Jobs: Support roles in Wipro, Infosys, TCS, etc.
•Teaching: Work in schools, colleges, or private centers.
•Tourism & Travel: Guide or help Japanese tourists.
•Anime & Games: Translate anime, manga, or video games.
•IT & Automobile Jobs: Work with Japanese firms like Toyota, Honda, NEC.

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