I'm currently at a point where if I ask for an explanation of what something is or what a word is that I've never heard, I can usually follow along with a simple explanation and understand what this concept/thing/word is in my head. When I am explained what it is in Japanese, I don't translate it into English, I just have the idea there in my head, just like a tatami is a tatami, and ramen is ramen. I dont think of these ideas as "flooring made of layered, bundled rice straw" or "chinese noodles with various toppings in a savory broth". I really enjoy having reached this point with words that actually have an English translation. However, when it comes to grammar and idioms, have any of you gotten to the point where you deliberately try to learn these things by reading Japanese explanations? Has it helped get out of the habit of translating words to your native language in your head first?
Looking forward to hearing all your answers!
by the_real_gunkorn