How difficult is it to learn to speak Japanese??

Question

I am looking for the general idea of difficulty of learning japanese language. I have been interested for some time, and i have finally decided to take the couses, but was wondering on a rate of 1 to 10, how difficult is it??

Answer 1

It's hard, but it depends, too, on the aspect of the language you're looking at and your goals in learning. If you only want to speak, Japanese is simple to pronounce and understand (though I still can't pronounce a "g" right for the life of me lol). In terms of writing, Japanese is very difficult, but it's doable, so don't let yourself be intimidated.

Personally, the first month and a half for me was very difficult. Japanese grammar is completely different from English, and as a result those first weeks of learning are really hard because you have to wrap your mind around a completely new system. However, once you get past that initial difficulty, it gets MUCH easier.

I think the hardest thing about learning Japanese in terms of fluency for me is learning the different levels of conversation. For instance, if you're speaking to someone "higher" than you, for instance a boss, you have different ways of talking to show respect. This is called "keigo." However, this is a rather advanced part of the language, and one that isn't really necessary if you just want to be able to talk or travel around in Japan. I'm currently working here, and I hardly ever use keigo simply because I'm not good enough at it yet, and people tend to be impressed that I can speak any Japanese whatsoever.

This is a sort of long-winded way to say if you just want to learn to talk or take a couple of years, I think you should go for it. It may not be as easy for you as learning Spanish, but if you can make it past that first hurdle and get used to the grammar, you'll be fine. :) Not to mention learning Japanese will open you up an entire culture. Good luck!

Answer 2

It's not that difficult. The grammar is pretty simple (if you remember to keep the verb at the end, rather than in the middle like English), and the pronunciation is easy.
Learning the characters is a nightmare on the other hand.
Grammar-wise, I would give it a 5.

Answer 3

For speakers of English, Japanese has the most difficult grammar of all advanced languages. Those who claim that it is fairly easy make me wonder how well they truly understand it.

Answer 4

My teacher says Japanese is considered a "level 5" language. (Meaning it takes five times longer for Westerners to learn than, say, Spanish.)

Answer 5

probably like a 7, but I've heard some people say that it was easier than they thought, and I've heard other people say it's extremely hard, so I'd say, it depends on your learning skills and dedication.