Japanese Language 

1) Characteristics of the Japanese Language

Japanese is classified as an SOV-type language, where predicates such as verbs and adjectives typically come at the end of a sentence, as in "I (S) will study (O) Japanese (V)."

Languages like Korean, Mongolian, Dutch, and others also follow this pattern. In contrast, languages like English, Spanish, and Chinese are SVO-type, where the verb or adjective precedes the subject, as in "I (S) study (V) Japanese (O)."

However, Japanese is relatively flexible regarding word order, occasionally omitting the subject (S), as in "(I) will take tomorrow off," or rearranging the word order, as in "I like curry, I...".

Japanese primarily employs three character types: hiragana, katakana, and kanji, with occasional use of the alphabet. Hiragana alone consists of 46 characters (excluding variations like "Kyakyu-kyo" for turbid sounds and semi-turbid sounds like "pa"). In contrast, kanji, introduced in elementary school, includes thousands of characters.

In contrast, English can be expressed using just 26 alphabet letters, while Hangul requires only 24 letters. Hence, languages utilizing such an extensive character set are relatively rare globally. This is one reason why Japanese is considered challenging for learners from non-Kanji countries.

2)What is the JLPT?

The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is a certification exam designed to assess the Japanese language proficiency of foreigners. It consists of five levels, from N1 to N5, with N1 being the most challenging and an average pass rate of approximately 30%. The JLPT is offered twice annually and can be taken abroad, with over 1 million candidates taking the test in 2019. Given its global reach, achieving a high JLPT score serves as compelling evidence of Japanese language proficiency.

3) Difference between JLPT and BJT

The BJT (BJT Business Japanese Proficiency Test) evaluates the ability to communicate effectively in Japanese within professional contexts. As the name suggests, it assesses Japanese language skills relevant to business settings. Scores on the BJT range from 0 to 800 points, with six levels, from J5 to J1+. Achieving a high BJT score necessitates a considerable level of Japanese language proficiency, making it a logical step for foreigners with basic Japanese language skills.

4)Approximate Japanese Language Proficiency Levels

N1 Level

Individuals who attain the N1 level of the JLPT are typically capable of comprehending Japanese used in a broad array of situations. They can not only read moderately complex texts but also grasp the content and structure of highly abstract materials. In terms of listening comprehension, they can understand natural-speed conversations and communicate much like native Japanese speakers. However, understanding a conversation doesn't guarantee smooth communication, so care should be taken to avoid one-sided interactions.

N2 Level

At the N2 level of the JLPT, candidates can comprehend Japanese employed in everyday situations and, to some extent, in diverse contexts. They can also understand the content of newspapers, magazines, and critical texts. Additionally, they possess the ability to comprehend conversation flow and the author's intent, reading Japanese at an advanced level. In terms of listening, they can understand not only daily dialogue but also relationships between characters in news narratives and similar content.

N3 Level

N3-level candidates can understand Japanese used in everyday situations to some extent. Their reading skills enable them to comprehend everyday topics and extract general information from newspaper headlines. They can understand slightly more complex texts by using simple paraphrasing and other straightforward expressions. Furthermore, they can comprehend specific content at near-natural conversational speed.

N4 Level

The N4 level of the JLPT signifies the ability to understand fundamental Japanese. Reading capabilities include understanding everyday content composed of basic vocabulary and kanji. Likewise, candidates can understand the majority of everyday conversations. The difference from the N5 level lies in the candidate's ability to read and understand even when sentences lack standardization, and they can comprehend most content, even in longer conversations.

N5 Level

The N5 level of the JLPT indicates the capability to understand basic Japanese to some degree. Candidates can read standard sentences written in basic kanji, hiragana, and katakana. Listening comprehension reaches a level where necessary information from short daily life conversations can be understood. However, the speed of the conversation may affect listening comprehension.

5) How to Enhance Communication with Your Japanese Company

When working with a Japanese company, effective communication is essential for a successful experience. Here are some ways you can engage with your company to facilitate smoother communication:

Create a Vocabulary List:

Understand that there might be specific workplace vocabulary used within your company that you didn't learn in a classroom setting. This could include names of tools like screws and wrenches, location-specific terms such as halls and lines, or jargon related to work schedules like shifts, night shifts, and triple shifts. It's a good idea to request a vocabulary list from your company in advance.

Request Clear Communication:

Don't hesitate to ask your colleagues and supervisors to speak slowly and clearly during discussions. There might be moments when you're uncertain if you've grasped the information correctly. While it might seem like rephrasing would help, it can sometimes add confusion. Surprisingly, simplifying explanations for Japanese speakers can pose a challenge for learners. Instead, kindly request them to repeat their explanations slowly.

Understanding "Easy Japanese": 

Be aware that there can be disparities between what Japanese people consider "easy and gentle Japanese" and what foreign nationals expect. Familiarizing yourself with the concept of "easy Japanese" can be advantageous for both you and your colleagues. Some key points to remember include:

Avoiding the use of idiomatic expressions and opting for easily understandable words.

Keeping your sentences concise and avoiding ambiguous expressions.

Using your imagination to assess if you can provide additional clarity on terms that might be unclear.

There are guidelines available for "easy Japanese" on the Agency for Cultural Affairs' website. Don't hesitate to explore and utilize these resources.