Start Speaking Japanese: Easy Animated Lessons

Welcome to Basic Japanese Greetings!Let's start with the morning greeting, Ohayou gozaimasu.Notice the proper pronunciation and pitch pattern.When greeting in Japanese, a slight bow is customary.For daytime greetings, we use Konnichiwa.Konnichiwa has a distinct rhythm and pitch pattern.In the evening, we switch to Konbanwa.The pitch pattern for Konbanwa is similar to Konnichiwa.These greetings can be adjusted for different levels of formality.Let's learn how to introduce ourselves in Japanese.The basic self-introduction phrase is Watashi wa, followed by your name, and then desu.In Japanese, names are written with the surname first, followed by the given name.When meeting someone for the first time, we start with Hajimemashite.This is followed by Yoroshiku onegaishimasu, which expresses your hope for a good relationship.Let's see how these phrases come together in a typical first meeting.Let's practice the pronunciation of these key phrases. Pay attention to the emphasized syllables.In Japanese, there are two number systems: the Chinese-derived system and the native Japanese system.Japanese uses special counting particles depending on what you're counting.Now let's learn how to tell time in Japanese.Let's learn how to ask and answer basic questions in Japanese.To form a question in Japanese, we add です か (desu ka) at the end of a statement.Let's look at some example questions using our question words.Now let's learn how to respond to these questions.The intonation of Japanese questions is very important. Notice how the pitch rises at the end.Let's practice some common questions you might use in daily life.Let's learn some essential everyday Japanese expressions.Sumimasen is a versatile expression used for both apologies and getting attention. It's accompanied by a slight bow.When using Sumimasen to get someone's attention, maintain a polite tone and bow slightly.Next, let's look at how to express gratitude in Japanese.Arigatou gozaimasu is the formal way to say thank you. The depth of your bow indicates the level of gratitude.For casual situations, you can simply say Arigatou, while Doumo is very casual and used among friends.Finally, let's learn about saying goodbye in Japanese.Sayounara is a formal goodbye used when parting for a long time. It's usually accompanied by a respectful bow.For casual goodbyes, Ja ne or Mata ne are more appropriate, often accompanied by a wave instead of a bow.Let's review the key points about Japanese everyday expressions.Always match your expression to the situation's formality, accompany your words with appropriate gestures, and consider your relationship with the person you're speaking to.Thank you for completing this Japanese language journey with Spark.E!