Tips for More Effective Studying
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How to use ～ば｜JLPT N4 Grammar｜Minna no Nihongo Lesson 35 (みんなの日本語35課)
2025/11/15
The expression 「～ば」 is one of the main ways to express conditional “if” in Japanese. It is used when you want to describe what will happen if a certain condition is met. This form is polite, grammatical, and commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese. When and How It’s Used The conditional form 「～ば」 […] […]
How to use 《普通形》＋ (な) んですか。｜JLPT N4 Grammar｜Minna no Nihongo Lesson 26 (みんなの日本語26課)
2025/11/15
The expression 「～んですか」 is a natural and polite way to ask about someone’s reason or situation in Japanese. It sounds softer and more conversational than the plain 「～ですか」 or 「どうして～ですか」, which can feel too direct.Native speakers often use 「どうして～んですか」 to show curiosity or concern in a friendly way. When and How It’s Used Use 「～んですか」 […] […]
How to Say “While doing …” in Japanese | 〜ながら (…nagara) | JLPT N4 Grammar
2025/11/08
In Japanese, ～ながら shows that two actions happen at the same time. It’s often used to describe multitasking, like “listening to music while studying” or “talking while walking.” The first action (before ～ながら) happens in the background, and the second action is the main one. When and How It’s Used The pattern ～ながら is used […] […]
How to Say “It means …” in Japanese | ～は～という意味です (…wa …to iu imi desu) | JLPT N4 Grammar
2025/11/08
The expression 「～は～という意味です」 literally means “X means Y.”It’s used when explaining the meaning of a word or phrase in Japanese.You’ll hear it often in classes or conversations when someone asks, “What does that mean?” It’s a key pattern for giving definitions and learning vocabulary naturally. When and How It’s Used Use 「～は～という意味です」 when you want […] […]
How to Say “Could you please～.” in Japanese | 〜んですが、～ていただけませんか (〜n desu ga ～te itadakemasen ka) | JLPT N4 Grammar
2025/10/31
In Japanese, showing consideration when making a request is very important. The expression “〜んですが、〜ていただけませんか” is one of the most natural and polite ways to ask someone for help. Instead of saying the direct “〜てください,” this pattern lets you introduce your situation first (“〜んですが”) and then make a gentle request (“〜ていただけませんか”).It’s perfect for conversations with teachers, […] […]
How to Say “(someone) was saying that〜.” in Japanese | 〜と言っていました (〜to itte imashita) | JLPT N4 Grammar
2025/10/31
When learning Japanese, one of the most practical and frequently used expressions is “〜と言っていました” (〜to itte imashita) — the standard way to report what someone said. Whether you’re telling a friend about what your teacher mentioned, sharing news from your boss, or recounting a conversation, this expression helps you convey information accurately and naturally. Unlike […] […]
How to Say “Why … ?” in Japanese | どうして〜んですか (doushite ~n desu ka) | JLPT N4 Grammar
2025/10/30
The expression “〜んです” (and its question form “〜んですか”), one of the most natural ways to explain reasons or situations in Japanese. Compared with “どうして〜ですか” or “〜ませんか”, the question “どうして〜んですか” sounds more natural and is used far more often in conversation. Native speakers usually prefer “どうして〜んですか” because it sounds softer, more natural, and fits perfectly in […] […]
Should You Take JLPT N3 or N2 ?
2025/10/28
Deciding if you should take JLPT N3 or N2 depends on your current level, goals, and how much time you can commit. This guide breaks down the key differences between JLPT N3 vs N2, from exam structure and difficulty to career impact, so you can choose the right JLPT certification for your Japanese journey. JLPT […] […]
How long does it take to reach JLPT N3 from N5?
2025/10/27
Many learners wonder how fast they can reach JLPT N3 from N5. The answer depends on multiple factors : your study intensity, existing knowledge, and learning approach. This guide explores realistic timeframes, breaks down key differences between N5 and N3, and shares real student testimonials who reached N3 in just a few months, to help […] […]
JLPT N3 Reading: Exercises, Practice & Tips
2025/10/25
Succeed in the JLPT N3 reading comprehension section with this comprehensive guide. Inside you’ll find authentic JLPT N3 reading practice exercises, top-rated study books, and tips to improve your comprehension skills strategically. What is the Reading Comprehension Section? The JLPT N3 reading comprehension section tests your ability to read and understand everyday Japanese. You get […] […]
JLPT N3 Vocabulary: Complete List & Practice Guide
2025/10/24
Master JLPT N3 vocabulary with our complete list and learning tips. This guide covers everything you need to know about the 3,750 essential vocabulary words required to pass N3, and proven practice methods to retain them. Whether you’re building your foundation or refining your skills, discover how to learn Japanese vocabulary that sticks in your […] […]
Common Mistakes Spanish Speakers Make when Speaking Japanese
2025/10/19
At Nihongo Online School, we work every day with Spanish-speaking learners who already know some grammar and vocabulary but feel blocked when they try to speak. The good news is that most issues come from a predictable set of habits carried over from Spanish—things like stressing syllables instead of counting moras, shortening long vowels, or […] […]
