{"id":1905,"date":"2026-03-30T03:20:12","date_gmt":"2026-03-30T03:20:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kanji123.org\/blog\/?p=1905"},"modified":"2026-04-08T06:48:06","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T06:48:06","slug":"japanese-words-beginners-must-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kanji123.org\/blog\/japanese-words-beginners-must-know\/","title":{"rendered":"100+ Japanese Words Every Beginner Must Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"100+<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

The minimum amount of Japanese words you should learn before traveling to Japan \u2014 or before starting your language journey.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Say you’re going to Japan. Then you realize that you don’t know any Japanese words. Or, you’re learning Japanese, and you want to make sure you know some of the most important words in the language. This list is for you. These 100 Japanese words will get you through an untold number of situations, problems, and feelings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not sure how to read kana yet? No problem. Start with our hiragana guide<\/a> and katakana guide<\/a> to learn how each system works before moving on. However, romaji works perfectly as a starting point, so let\u2019s get into the words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emergency<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Learn these first. Seriously.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

You don’t want to be caught off guard in a foreign country. Learn these Japanese words before anything else \u2014 you hope you’ll never need them, but you absolutely should know them.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u30c8\u30a4\u30ec<\/strong> \/ \u624b\u6d17\u3044<\/strong> toire \/ tearai<\/strong><\/td>Toilet \/ Bathroom<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Both work. Toire is casual and universally understood. Tearai is more polished for formal settings. In a pinch, make a ‘T’ shape with your hands \u2014 everyone gets it. Toire wa doko desu ka? = ‘Where is the toilet?’ This single sentence will save you more than once.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u52a9\u3051\u3066\uff01<\/strong> tasukete!<\/strong><\/td>Help!<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Shout this clearly and loudly. Japanese people are generally shy about approaching strangers, but tasukete! cuts through that immediately. Wave both arms overhead for extra visibility in a crowd.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u308f\u304b\u308a\u307e\u305b\u3093<\/strong> wakarimasen<\/strong><\/td>I don’t understand<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Arguably the most-used phrase for any new learner. Someone speaks rapid Japanese at you and you freeze \u2014 wakarimasen is your safety net. Nobody takes offence. Pair it with eigo for the full rescue combo.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3084\u3081\u3066\uff01<\/strong> yamete!<\/strong><\/td>Stop it!<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Firm and direct. Use this if someone is harassing you or behaving aggressively. Say it with energy. A softer version is chotto matte (wait a moment), but if you genuinely need someone to stop, yamete is the word.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u82f1\u8a9e<\/strong> eigo<\/strong><\/td>English<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Japanese students study English for years, yet few feel confident speaking it. Don’t give up after one try. Say Eigo ga wakarimasu ka? and wait \u2014 someone nearby often understands more than they let on.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u670d<\/strong> fuku<\/strong><\/td>Clothes<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Maybe you’re at a hot springs and can’t find your clothes. Hey, it’s possible.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u6b7b\u306b\u305d\u3046<\/strong> shinisou<\/strong><\/td>I think I’m going to die<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
When things get really serious, you may need to pull out all the stops.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u8b66\u5bdf<\/strong> keisatsu<\/strong><\/td>Police<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Japan has small police boxes called koban (\u4ea4\u756a) on almost every major corner. They’re the fastest source of help for lost tourists \u2014 officers often have city maps and are used to helping confused visitors.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5371\u306a\u3044\uff01<\/strong> abunai!<\/strong><\/td>Dangerous! \/ Watch out!<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
You’ll see this on warning signs at construction sites and train platforms. More importantly \u2014 if someone shouts it at you, move first, ask questions later.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5371\u967a<\/strong> kiken<\/strong><\/td>Peril \/ Hazard<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Basically another abunai. You’ll see this on hazard labels and safety signage rather than hearing someone shout it.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udca1 Quick tip: Save a screenshot of this entire emergency section on your phone before you travel. WiFi and data aren’t always available \u2014 offline access to these words could make a real difference.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Asking Questions<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One word + body language = you’re communicating<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Question words are your best friends as a beginner. Even a single word delivered with a questioning tone and some body language produces results. Asking questions also shows locals you’re trying \u2014 and that goodwill goes a long way.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u3069\u3053\uff1f<\/strong> doko?<\/strong><\/td>Where?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The single most useful question word for travelers. Point at your map or phone and say doko \u2014 people understand immediately. Works as a complete sentence: Toire wa doko? \/ Hoteru wa doko desu ka?<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u306a\u306b\uff1f<\/strong> nani?<\/strong><\/td>What?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
What!? WHAT!? \u2014 Kore wa nan desu ka? = ‘What is this?’ Essential for pointing at unfamiliar food, signs, or objects.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3044\u3064\uff1f<\/strong> itsu?<\/strong><\/td>When?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Pretty important if you’re trying to time something. Shinkansen wa itsu? = ‘When is the Shinkansen?’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3069\u3046\u3057\u3066\uff1f<\/strong> doushite?<\/strong><\/td>Why?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Then again, you probably won’t understand what the person responds with \u2014 but it’s always nice to ask. Use carefully with strangers; asking ‘why?’ can feel confrontational in Japanese culture.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3060\u308c\uff1f<\/strong> dare?<\/strong><\/td>Who?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Great when you need to know who someone’s talking about. Dare desu ka? = ‘Who is this person?’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u6642\u9593<\/strong> jikan<\/strong><\/td>Time<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Ask with a quizzical tone and people will get the drift. Point to your wrist while you’re at it \u2014 most people will just show you their phone.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u8cea\u554f<\/strong> shitsumon<\/strong><\/td>Question<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Have a question? Let someone know. Couple this with ‘eigo! eigo!’ and maybe someone who speaks some English will come to answer your shitsumon.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3044\u304f\u3089\uff1f<\/strong> ikura?<\/strong><\/td>How much?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The most important shopping word. Point at anything in a store and say ikura \u2014 you’ll get a price. Note: haggling is not common in Japan. The price you see is almost always the price you pay.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

People<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Pronouns, roles, and relationships<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Japanese handles pronouns very differently from English \u2014 speakers often drop them entirely. Watashi is the safe, gender-neutral option for nearly every situation you’ll encounter as a visitor.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u79c1<\/strong> watashi<\/strong><\/td>I \/ Me<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The all-purpose first-person pronoun. Safe to use in every context. Watashi wa [your name] desu = ‘I am [your name].’ Your Japanese introduction in four words.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3042\u306a\u305f<\/strong> anata<\/strong><\/td>You<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Technically correct, but Japanese speakers rarely say anata to someone they know \u2014 it can feel cold. Use the person’s name + san instead. For a stranger, anata is perfectly acceptable.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5148\u751f<\/strong> sensei<\/strong><\/td>Teacher \/ Doctor \/ Master<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Goes far beyond the classroom \u2014 used for doctors, lawyers, politicians, martial arts instructors, anyone with deep expertise. The kanji literally means ‘born before,’ implying someone who has lived and learned more than you.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5b66\u751f<\/strong> gakusei<\/strong><\/td>Student<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
If you’re studying in Japan, this is your social identity. Many services offer gakusei waribiki (student discount) \u2014 always worth asking.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u4f1a\u793e\u54e1<\/strong> kaishain<\/strong><\/td>Company Employee<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
If you go to Japan to work, this is probably what you’ll become.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u4eba<\/strong> hito<\/strong><\/td>Person<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The general word for ‘person.’ Foundation of compound words: Nihonjin = Japanese person, Amerikajin = American person. Pattern: country + jin. Hito ga ippai = ‘There are lots of people.’ You’ll definitely say this at Shibuya crossing.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u53cb\u9054<\/strong> tomodachi<\/strong><\/td>Friend<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
One of the most emotionally warm words on this list. Japanese friendships tend to form slowly and run deep. Being called a tomodachi is genuinely meaningful.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Locations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Japan has the best public transit in the world. Use it.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trains and subways are punctual, clean, and extensive. Knowing location words is immediately practical \u2014 and many place names contain kanji you’ll recognize once you know them.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u99c5<\/strong> eki<\/strong><\/td>Train Station<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The most useful location word in Japan. Area name + eki = station name. Shibuya-eki = Shibuya Station. Stations have exits labeled by direction \u2014 knowing kita (north), minami (south), higashi (east), nishi (west) helps enormously.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u7a7a\u6e2f<\/strong> kuukou<\/strong><\/td>Airport<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Kuukou wa doko desu ka? = ‘Where is the airport?’ Tokyo has two airports \u2014 Narita and Haneda \u2014 and they’re far apart. Know which one you’re using.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u30db\u30c6\u30eb<\/strong> hoteru<\/strong><\/td>Hotel<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
A loanword from English \u2014 ‘hotel’ becomes ho-te-ru because Japanese syllables end in vowels. Most hotel staff in tourist areas speak some English, but taxi drivers may not.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u65e5\u672c<\/strong> nihon \/ nippon<\/strong><\/td>Japan<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
This is the country you are going to! Both readings are correct \u2014 nihon in everyday speech, nippon in formal or patriotic contexts.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u51fa\u53e3<\/strong> \/ \u5165\u53e3<\/strong> deguchi \/ iriguchi<\/strong><\/td>Exit \/ Entrance<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
You’ll see these kanji on every door, train gate, and building in Japan. \u51fa = go out, \u5165 = enter, \u53e3 = mouth\/opening. Check Google Maps before exiting a station \u2014 it tells you exactly which exit number to use.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u53f3<\/strong> \/ \u5de6<\/strong> migi \/ hidari<\/strong><\/td>Right \/ Left<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Essential for following directions. Remember: Japanese traffic drives on the left. When someone says ‘turn migi,’ think before stepping off the kerb.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u30b3\u30f3\u30d3\u30cb<\/strong> kombini<\/strong><\/td>Convenience Store<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
A genuine cultural institution. Hot meals, ATMs, printing, ticket machines \u2014 and the food quality is astonishing. If you’re ever lost, hungry, or out of cash, find the nearest kombini. There is almost certainly one within three minutes of wherever you’re standing.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u30bf\u30af\u30b7\u30fc<\/strong> takushii<\/strong><\/td>Taxi<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Taxis in Japan open their back door automatically \u2014 don’t try to open it yourself. Most accept cash only. Show the driver a map or written address rather than trying to pronounce it.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5927\u5b66<\/strong> daigaku<\/strong><\/td>University \/ College<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
If you’re going to Japan to study, this Japanese word is pretty darn important.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u307e\u3093\u304c\u55ab\u8336<\/strong> manga kissa<\/strong><\/td>Manga Cafe<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
A cheap place to sleep, use wifi, shower, and drink unlimited free fountain drinks. A private booth for the night costs roughly 1,500-3,000 yen. The seats recline but don’t lie flat \u2014 not the most comfortable, but it’s cheap.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5bb6<\/strong> ie \/ uchi<\/strong><\/td>Home<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
There’s no place like it.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Food & Drink<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Japan has some of the best food in the world. Act accordingly.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This might be the most enjoyable section to study. From sushi counters to ramen shops, knowing food vocabulary adds enormous pleasure to every meal.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u304a\u306a\u304b\u3059\u3044\u305f<\/strong> \/ \u306f\u3089\u3078\u3063\u305f<\/strong> onaka suita \/ hara hetta<\/strong><\/td>Hungry<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Two ways to say hungry. Onaka suita is neutral and works with everyone. Hara hetta is more casual and sounds rougher \u2014 mostly used by men with close friends.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u98df\u3079\u307e\u3059<\/strong> \/ \u98df\u3079\u307e\u305b\u3093<\/strong> tabemasu \/ tabemasen<\/strong><\/td>I eat \/ I don’t eat<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Add a food word before the verb for a complete statement. Niku tabemasen = ‘I don’t eat meat.’ Cultural note: many Japanese dishes contain fish stock even when they look vegetarian \u2014 add sakana (fish) separately if you have dietary restrictions.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u98f2\u307f\u307e\u3059<\/strong> \/ \u98f2\u307f\u307e\u305b\u3093<\/strong> nomimasu \/ nomimasen<\/strong><\/td>I drink \/ I don’t drink<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Works exactly like tabemasu. Osake nomimasen = ‘I don’t drink alcohol.’ At a restaurant, nomimono wa? means ‘What would you like to drink?’ \u2014 often the first question you’ll be asked.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u6c34<\/strong> mizu<\/strong><\/td>Water<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Tap water in Japan is safe and usually free at restaurants. Ask with o-mizu kudasai (‘water, please’). Many restaurants keep a jug on the table and refill freely.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u7f8e\u5473\u3057\u3044\uff01<\/strong> oishii!<\/strong><\/td>Delicious!<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
One of the most powerful words you can use at a restaurant. Say it enthusiastically after the first bite and watch the cook’s face light up. It costs nothing and means everything. Mecha oishii = ‘incredibly delicious.’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u4e0d\u5473\u3044<\/strong> mazui<\/strong><\/td>Bad tasting<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
I wouldn’t ever say this to someone’s face, though.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u304a\u3059\u3059\u3081<\/strong> osusume<\/strong><\/td>Recommendation<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Ask osusume wa nan desu ka? and point to yourself. Restaurant staff love this question and will proudly tell you their best dish. You often get better food than you would have chosen yourself. Works in shops and hotel desks too.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u98df\u3079\u7269<\/strong> \/ \u98f2\u307f\u7269<\/strong> tabemono \/ nomimono<\/strong><\/td>Food \/ Drink (nouns)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The noun forms \u2014 not the verbs, but the things themselves. Tabemono wa? = ‘What’s the food?’ \/ Nomimono wa? = ‘What’s the drink?’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u30ec\u30b9\u30c8\u30e9\u30f3<\/strong> \/ \u30b9\u30fc\u30d1\u30fc<\/strong> resutoran \/ suupaa<\/strong><\/td>Restaurant \/ Supermarket<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Resutoran for a formal or Western-style place. Suupaa when you need something a convenience store can’t give you.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Being Polite<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You don’t want to piss people off when you’re in their country.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Politeness is not optional in Japan \u2014 it’s woven into daily life. Using these phrases marks you as culturally aware and earns genuine warmth in return. Even mispronounced, they land far better than silence.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u3042\u308a\u304c\u3068\u3046\u3054\u3056\u3044\u307e\u3059<\/strong> arigatou gozaimasu<\/strong><\/td>Thank You<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Say it a lot. You cannot over-thank in Japan. Casual: arigatou. Very casual: domo. When leaving a shop or restaurant: arigatou gozaimashita (past tense). This is called omotenashi \u2014 the spirit of wholehearted hospitality. Lean into it.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3059\u307f\u307e\u305b\u3093<\/strong> sumimasen<\/strong><\/td>Excuse Me \/ Sorry \/ Thank You<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The most versatile word on this entire list. Use it to get a waiter’s attention, apologize for bumping into someone, ask for help, or express mild gratitude. At a restaurant, say it loudly toward the kitchen \u2014 this is completely normal and expected. Nobody will find it rude.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3054\u3081\u3093\u306a\u3055\u3044<\/strong> gomennasai<\/strong><\/td>I’m Truly Sorry<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
A real, sincere apology \u2014 heavier than sumimasen. Use it for genuine mistakes, not minor bumps. Gomen ne is the casual version between friends.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3044\u305f\u3060\u304d\u307e\u3059<\/strong> itadakimasu<\/strong><\/td>Said Before Eating<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
One of the most culturally rich words on this list. It literally means ‘I humbly receive’ \u2014 expressing gratitude not just to the cook but to everyone who made the meal possible. Say it with hands pressed together or a slight bow.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3054\u3061\u305d\u3046\u3055\u307e\u3067\u3057\u305f<\/strong> gochisousama deshita<\/strong><\/td>Thank You for the Meal<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The closing phrase of every Japanese meal. Say it to the kitchen staff as you leave \u2014 they’ll bow and respond warmly. Literally means ‘it was a feast.’ In a home setting, saying this to your host family is one of the most appreciated things you can do.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u304a\u9858\u3044\u3057\u307e\u3059<\/strong> onegaishimasu<\/strong><\/td>Please (polite request)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Attach this to any request and it becomes polite instantly. Mizu onegaishimasu = ‘Water, please.’ In a shop, just point at what you want and say it. Kudasai is slightly more direct and also correct \u2014 both work perfectly.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Greetings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Say hello \u2014 and then goodbye!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Japanese greetings are time-specific. Getting the right one shows cultural awareness that locals notice and appreciate.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u304a\u306f\u3088\u3046\u3054\u3056\u3044\u307e\u3059<\/strong> ohayou gozaimasu<\/strong><\/td>Good Morning<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Use this until roughly 10-11am. Casual form: ohayou with friends. In workplaces, this is said even at midnight if it’s your first greeting of the working day \u2014 ‘morning’ means ‘start of your shift.’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3053\u3093\u306b\u3061\u306f<\/strong> konnichiwa<\/strong><\/td>Hello \/ Good Afternoon<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The most famous Japanese word internationally. Use from late morning through early evening (~10am to 6pm). Polite, friendly, works with strangers, shopkeepers, and new acquaintances. The perfect all-around daytime greeting.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3053\u3093\u3070\u3093\u306f<\/strong> konbanwa<\/strong><\/td>Good Evening<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Switch to this after sunset, roughly from 6pm onward. At dinner restaurants, you’ll hear it from staff as you arrive. Responding in kind sets a warm, respectful tone for the whole meal.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3067\u306f\u307e\u305f<\/strong> \/ \u307e\u305f\u660e\u65e5<\/strong> dewa mata \/ mata ashita<\/strong><\/td>See You Later \/ See You Tomorrow<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Dewa mata for when you might see them again sometime. Mata ashita for when you’ll almost certainly see them the very next day.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3055\u3088\u3046\u306a\u3089<\/strong> sayounara<\/strong><\/td>Goodbye<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Carries a note of finality \u2014 implies you may not see this person for a long time, or ever. Japanese people rarely say it to friends they see regularly. Better suited for farewells at the end of a trip. For everyday goodbyes, ja ne or mata ne are more natural.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u304a\u3084\u3059\u307f\u306a\u3055\u3044<\/strong> oyasuminasai<\/strong><\/td>Good Night<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Said when going to bed or parting for the evening. Casual: oyasumi. In a guesthouse, saying this to your host before bed is expected and appreciated. The word literally contains yasumu (to rest) \u2014 you’re essentially saying ‘please rest well.’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Basic Verbs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Verbs are the engine of every Japanese sentence.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Japanese is a verb-final language \u2014 the verb comes last, but carries the most weight. One form works for ‘I go,’ ‘you go,’ ‘they go.’ Memorize these and don’t worry about the rest yet.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u884c\u304d\u307e\u3059<\/strong> ikimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Go<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The most versatile travel verb. Tokyo Eki ni ikimasu = ‘I’m going to Tokyo Station.’ Add any destination before ni ikimasu and you have a working sentence.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5e30\u308a\u307e\u3059<\/strong> kaerimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Return (home)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Specifically implies returning to a home base. Has a warmer, more personal feeling than just ‘go back.’ Will you come back to pay your bill? Yes. Kaerimasu.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3057\u307e\u3059<\/strong> shimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Do<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The best verb ever. Stick it on a noun for all you care \u2014 people will understand. Tennis shimasu = ‘I play tennis.’ Benkyou shimasu = ‘I study.’ This single verb unlocks hundreds of sentences.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u898b\u307e\u3059<\/strong> mimasu<\/strong><\/td>To See \/ Watch \/ Look<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
What is it you want to see? Fuji-san ga mitai = ‘I want to see Mt. Fuji.’ In a store: chotto mite mo ii desu ka? = ‘May I take a look at this?’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u8cb7\u3044\u307e\u3059<\/strong> kaimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Buy<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
For all of you who like shopping. Point at any item and say kaimasu to signal you want it. The negative kaimasen is a clear, polite way to decline a pushy vendor.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5f85\u3061\u307e\u3059<\/strong> machimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Wait<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Chotto matte kudasai = ‘Please wait a moment.’ You’ll hear this constantly in service interactions. At a busy restaurant, it means there will be a short wait.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u66f8\u304d\u307e\u3059<\/strong> kakimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Write<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Have people write the directions down! Japanese addresses are complex \u2014 a written address beats trying to pronounce it every time.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u6b62\u307e\u308a\u307e\u3059<\/strong> tomarimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Stop<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
If you’re driving, look out for the \u6b62 symbol on a red triangle sign. That’s a stop sign.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u6559\u3048\u307e\u3059<\/strong> oshiemasu<\/strong><\/td>To Teach \/ Tell \/ Show<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Oshiete kudasai = ‘Please show me \/ Please tell me.’ Point at a map and say this \u2014 most people will help immediately. Michi wo oshiete kudasai = ‘Please show me the way.’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u8a71\u3057\u307e\u3059<\/strong> hanashimasu<\/strong><\/td>To Speak<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Eigo wo hanashimasu ka? = ‘Do you speak English?’ Don’t be discouraged if the answer is sukoshi dake (only a little). Even a little shared language goes far with goodwill on both sides.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Basic Adjectives<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One adjective = a complete thought.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Japanese adjectives are remarkably expressive. Many function as complete sentences on their own \u2014 ii = ‘it’s good,’ takai = ‘it’s expensive,’ samui = ‘it’s cold.’ No verb needed.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u65b0\u3057\u3044<\/strong> atarashii<\/strong><\/td>New<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
No, I don’t want used clothes. I want atarashii clothes.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5b09\u3057\u3044<\/strong> ureshii<\/strong><\/td>Happy<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
For when you eat that awesome meal. Ahhh, I am so ureshii.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5927\u4e08\u592b<\/strong> daijoubu<\/strong><\/td>Okay \/ It’s fine<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Works as both a statement and a question. If you fall and hit your knee: daijoubu! \u2014 people know you’re okay. But careful: said with a hand wave, it also means ‘no thank you, I’m fine.’ Context matters.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3059\u3054\u3044\uff01<\/strong> sugoi!<\/strong><\/td>Amazing!<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
The most versatile positive exclamation in Japanese. You’ll hear it constantly. Use it freely. Stacking works: sugoi sugoi sugoi = emphatic amazement. Native speakers actually say this.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u9ad8\u3044<\/strong> \/ \u5b89\u3044<\/strong> takai \/ yasui<\/strong><\/td>Expensive \/ Cheap<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Takai also means ‘tall’ when describing physical height. Context decides \u2014 takai biru = ‘tall building,’ takai kaban = ‘expensive bag.’ A long intake of breath followed by takai is the universal tourist reaction to price shock.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5927\u304d\u3044<\/strong> \/ \u5c0f\u3055\u3044<\/strong> ookii \/ chiisai<\/strong><\/td>Big \/ Small<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Point at an item in a shop and say ookii or chiisai \u2014 the shopkeeper understands immediately. Also works for clothing sizes and restaurant portion sizes.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u8fd1\u3044<\/strong> \/ \u9060\u3044<\/strong> chikai \/ tooi<\/strong><\/td>Near \/ Far<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Chikai desu ka? = ‘Is it close by?’ If they sigh and point vaguely into the distance, it is tooi. Follow up with aruite ikemasu ka? = ‘Can I walk there?’<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u60aa\u3044<\/strong> warui<\/strong><\/td>Bad<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
How do you feel? Warui. Is he a good person? No, he’s warui. A little flexible in usage.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u3044\u3044<\/strong> ii<\/strong><\/td>Good<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
One of the most powerful words on this list. Ii desu ne! = ‘How nice! \/ Sounds great!’ You’ll both say and hear this dozens of times a day. Cultural note: ii desu said with a hand wave can also mean ‘no thank you’ \u2014 context is everything.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u9762\u767d\u3044<\/strong> omoshiroi<\/strong><\/td>Interesting \/ Funny<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Covers both intellectual interest and humor. At a museum: fascinating. Watching a comedy: funny. Being called omoshiroi desu ne is a genuine compliment in Japan.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u697d\u3057\u3044<\/strong> tanoshii<\/strong><\/td>Fun \/ Enjoyable<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Express enjoyment with this word and everyone around you enjoys the moment more. Mecha tanoshikatta! = ‘That was so much fun!’ Say it after any activity \u2014 a tour, a meal, a game \u2014 and watch the host beam.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u71b1\u3044<\/strong> \/ \u5bd2\u3044<\/strong> atsui \/ samui<\/strong><\/td>Hot \/ Cold<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Atsui for hot weather or objects. Samui for cold air. Mushi-atsui = ‘hot and humid’ \u2014 the phrase every visitor needs in Tokyo in August. Japan’s summer heat is intense.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u4e0a\u624b<\/strong> \/ \u4e0b\u624b<\/strong> jouzu \/ heta<\/strong><\/td>Good At \/ Bad At<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
When you use your 100 Japanese words, people will tell you how jouzu your Japanese is, even though it’s probably not that good. Nobody will tell you how heta you are, though.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u99ac\u9e7f<\/strong> baka<\/strong><\/td>Stupid \/ Idiot<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
I bet you already knew this one. Baka!<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Colors<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Colors are extremely useful for giving directions and describing landmarks. ‘The red building,’ ‘the blue sign’ \u2014 instantly orients a local.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u8d64<\/strong>
aka
Red<\/strong><\/td>		\u9752<\/strong>
ao
Blue<\/strong><\/td>		\u9ed2<\/strong>
kuro
Black<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\u7dd1<\/strong>
midori
Green<\/strong><\/td>		\u9ec4\u8272<\/strong>
kiiro
Yellow<\/strong><\/td>		\u767d<\/strong>
shiro
White<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Cultural note: Ao is traditionally used for both blue and green in Japan. Traffic lights are technically ao (blue) even though they look green to most eyes. Modern Japanese uses midori specifically for green, but ao still covers a range of blue-green shades.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Numbers & Money<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Japan operates primarily in cash. Know your numbers.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Numbers unlock shopping, dining, transport, and scheduling. Once you know 1 to 10, building larger numbers is mostly arithmetic.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u4e00
ichi<\/strong>
1<\/strong><\/td>		\u4e8c
ni<\/strong>
2<\/strong><\/td>		\u4e09
san<\/strong>
3<\/strong><\/td>		\u56db
yon<\/strong>
4<\/strong><\/td>		\u4e94
go<\/strong>
5<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
\u516d
roku<\/strong>
6<\/strong><\/td>		\u4e03
nana<\/strong>
7<\/strong><\/td>		\u516b
hachi<\/strong>
8<\/strong><\/td>		\u4e5d
kyuu<\/strong>
9<\/strong><\/td>		\u5341
juu<\/strong>
10<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\ud83e\udde0 Mnemonic for 1-5: ‘Itchy knee! Son, She go!’ \u2014 Ridiculous, but it locks in the first five numbers instantly. Say it out loud three times.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u767e<\/strong> \/ \u5343 \/ \u4e07<\/strong> hyaku \/ sen \/ man<\/strong><\/td>100 \/ 1,000 \/ 10,000<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Key insight: Japan counts in units of man (10,000), not thousands like Western systems. 50,000 yen = go-man en (five ten-thousands). Building numbers is logical: 250 = ni-hyaku go-juu. Practice by reading price tags \u2014 they’re everywhere.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u5186<\/strong> en<\/strong><\/td>Yen (\u00a5)<\/strong><\/td><\/tr>
Add en after any number to state a price. Hyaku en = 100 yen. Sen en = 1,000 yen. Ichi-man en = 10,000 yen. The 100-yen coin is the Japanese quarter \u2014 you’ll use it constantly at vending machines, shrines, and coin lockers.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

That’s your foundation.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

100+ words across ten categories \u2014 enough to survive, navigate, eat well, and connect with people in Japan. Now go learn hiragana.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u304c\u3093\u3070\u3063\u3066\uff01<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ganbatte! \u2014 Do your best!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The minimum amount of Japanese words you should learn before traveling to Japan \u2014 or before starting your language journey.…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":1925,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[145,64,146,93],"class_list":["post-1905","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-learn-japanese","tag-basic-japanese","tag-japanese-for-beginners","tag-japanese-greetings","tag-japanese-vocabulary","entry"],"yoast_head":"\n100+ Japanese Words Every Beginner Must Know<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"100+ essential Japanese words for travelers with romaji, meanings, and practical tips for every situation.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link 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