The mastery of vocabulary and kanji is crucial to becoming fluent in Japanese. While the task may seem daunting, there are numerous resources designed to help students learn Japanese vocabulary and kanji effectively. This blog post will guide you through some of the best tools available.
1. Anki
Anki is a flashcard program that uses spaced repetition to optimize learning. You can create your own flashcards or download shared decks. Anki is particularly useful for learning kanji and vocabulary, as it allows you to review words at increasing intervals, focusing on the ones you find challenging.
2. WaniKani
WaniKani is an online application for learning kanji and vocabulary. It employs a spaced repetition system and mnemonic devices to help you memorize kanji and vocabulary effectively. WaniKani’s systematic approach takes you from radicals to kanji and then vocabulary, solidifying your understanding and recall.
3. Japanesepod101
Japanesepod101 provides comprehensive Japanese language courses, including lessons on vocabulary and kanji. Each lesson starts with a dialogue and then breaks down the vocabulary, grammar, and cultural context. You can also find word lists categorized by topic and level to help expand your vocabulary.
4. Kodansha’s Kanji Learner’s Course
Kodansha’s Kanji Learner’s Course is a highly regarded resource for learning kanji. It presents 2,300 kanji with meanings, readings, stroke order, and vocabulary examples. The kanji are ordered in a way that introduces simpler characters and concepts first, gradually introducing more complex kanji.
5. Memrise
Memrise is an online learning tool that offers courses in many languages, including Japanese. It uses spaced repetition and mnemonic techniques to help learners memorize vocabulary and kanji. Memrise also offers videos of native speakers, providing context for how words are used in real life.
6. Jisho
Jisho is a powerful online Japanese-English dictionary. You can search for words, kanji, and even example sentences. Jisho provides detailed information for each kanji, including meanings, readings, stroke order, words that use the kanji, and more.
7. “Remembering the Kanji” by James Heisig
Remembering the Kanji” is a unique method for learning kanji. It focuses on teaching the meaning and writing of kanji first, leaving the readings for later. This approach allows students to grasp the essence of kanji and remember them through stories.
8. Tofugu’s Learn Japanese
Tofugu, a Japanese language and culture blog, has a dedicated section for learning Japanese. It includes articles on how to learn kanji and vocabulary effectively, along with reviews and recommendations for learning resources.
Conclusion
Learning Japanese vocabulary and kanji is a significant part of becoming proficient in the language. Fortunately, the tools mentioned above can greatly facilitate this process. They offer a range of methods, from traditional flashcards and textbooks to innovative online platforms, allowing you to find the approach that suits you best.
Remember, the key to mastering vocabulary and kanji is consistency. Regular, focused study, coupled with real-world practice, will yield progress over time. Enjoy the learning journey, and don’t forget to celebrate your progress along the way. Happy studying!