How hard is it to learn Japanese?

Question

And what's the best way (and cheapest way) to learn the language?

Answer 1

The best way at in my opinion is mere exposure, if you grew up in a household where a second language was spoken then usually it's not as difficult, certain concepts of the language may take some getting used too (The subject being mentioned at the beginning of the sentence and formal and casual ways of saying things, etc.)

One of the best and cheapest ways is to learn from a friend or church member whatever, usually if you're in a certain organization such as a dance group club or peace organization, which has many asians members or has a person who knows the language, it wouldn't hurt to ask them, that way you can discuss fees and what times may be convienant for the both of you. Programs from Rosetta stone for example that teach foreign languages can cost up to $400 for both lesson programs. there are others but they can still be pretty pricey. I'm hoping to study the language too, but as you may realize this will take alot of hard work and devotion towards the subject, depending on you're age, the younger you are the better but this dosen't apply to all, (As in some adults may find it loads easier then others)

Answer 2

It's not actually that hard. Once you get past word order (subject-object-verb) and particles, you can find a lot of analogs to english in the little details to help you remember them.
It might not be the cheapest way, but the book Japanese for dummies has really helped me. It's about $25, but you could probably also get it at most public libraries.
Also, there's a program which is very helpful on the Georgia Public Broadcast channel, and they have a free digital library of most of the episodes. The show is Irasshai, and its website on gpb.com is http://www.gpb.org/irasshai/
Gambatte~

Answer 3

The best way isn't the cheapest way. I have a friend whose son has been attending Purdue University for five years now, just studying the Japanese language and society. He is very adept at languages, but is still struggling. A Berlitz course would be the quickest way.

Answer 4

Japanese is not that hard for a beginner to learn due to the simple pronounciation scheme (with few exceptions). The most difficult aspect of learning Japanese is to master reading and writing of the kanji. If you really focus, you can learnt the lanugage in about one and a half years...and believe me it'll pay off cuz Japanese are very tolerant towards foreginers speaking their language.

Answer 5

it depends. as for me, it's easy to learn both chinese and japanese. but some ppl might find it hard to learn japanese or chinese. the cheapest way is by learning from books and dictionary, but the best way is to move to japan.

Answer 6

better learn Chinese - it is easier and more widely used than japanese all over the world

Answer 7

as hard as learning chinese. they're kinda similar in writing.

Answer 8

go to www.learnjapanese.ca and you'll know