Learn Japanese
Why learn Japanese?
Japanese is one of the 10 most widely used languages in the world, with more than 130 million Japanese speakers the world over. Japan is of course a world leader in technology and automation. The trade relationship between the US and Japan will remain important for decades to come. Japan will also continue to export cultural commodities, as it has for many years now (everything from Karaoke to Tamagotchies), and understanding the Japanese language will be important for many aspects of North American business.
How easy is it to learn Japanese?
Japanese is one of the Eastern languages that is far outside the family of Indo-European languages. Japanese is very different from English or any other European language. The Japanese language is made of pictogram-like characters. In addition, Japanese is entirely different from Chinese.
Can you learn Japanese free?
It is tempting to want to learn a language like Japanese for free. We repeat throughout this site: you get what you pay for. Nowhere is this truer than in learning a language like Japanese. Japanese is a demanding language to learn, and it is to your great advantage to commit to formal training in Japanese, using methods from attending Japanese language school to registering for a course online.
As is the case with other languages, you need to know your commitment level:
- Do you merely want some basics of conversational Japanese?
- Do you want to pass a Japanese Language Proficiency Test?
- Or do you want to eventually work as a Japanese translator or interpreter?
Find out how to learn Japanese
Once you know what you want, there is no better way to search for Japanese learning resources than on the internet. The internet provides you with multiple search options. Begin with our “learn Japanese” directory or our directory of Japanese language schools to find a list of other resources to help you.
Learning Japanese online comes with a number of advantages that you won’t find elsewhere. We list these advantages throughout this site, but they’re worth restating here:
- Online allows you to learn Japanese at your own speed – fast or slow.
- You won’t need to quit your job or move your family.
- The anonymity of the online experience means you don’t have to worry about your age or about looking silly.
This guide also offers you the chance to read more about:
Interpreters and Translators
Interpreters and Translators: Employment and Income, Present and Future
Interpreters and Translators: Training and Qualifications
