First off, I have been studying the language for three years, but I’m only about N4 level so please use furigana in any examples in case I don’t know the kanji yet.
I am studying abroad next semester in Japan in order to get my bachelor’s degree. I’m excited, but in all honesty, I feel extremely underprepared. I’m okay with writing and listening to others, but speaking is my main issue. I’m fine with basic things like asking for directions, ordering food or really basic conversational stuff (likes, hobbies, weather, etc), but keeping up a full conversation is very difficult for me. My brain just doesn’t connect grammar patterns and conjugation super well in my head.
But I am going to be there for the first time, and while I know there’s people who will try to speak to me in English at times, I really want to make sure I can speak Japanese when needed. Are there any really important grammar patterns (or phrases/vocab) you wish you knew before traveling, or any that you think would be crucial to review before leaving?
I’m definitely hoping to review transition words, passive form and travel vocabulary. I also really struggle with counters.
Thank you!
2 comments
何名様ですか？How many people?
1人。 Just one
袋ご利用になりますか？
Do you need a (plastic) bag?
いいえ、大丈夫。 No thanks.
はい、お願いします。 Yes, please.
It sounds like you actually have a lot of simple basic grammar if you can ask for directions, order food, and have basic conversations. The issue seems to be instead that you don’t have a lot of practice speaking— which is totally normal.
I’d put effort into improving your speaking abilities by practicing what you already know until it’s smoother and conjugation comes more easily to you. You should try to signup for a language conversation partner or tutor at your current university, or hire one through iTalki or similar.
Since you’ll be studying abroad, I’d recommend instead of “traveling” or tourism vocabulary, that you instead focus on daily life vocabulary (aircon, temperature, cleaning products) and class-related vocabulary (such as classroom, lecture hall, office, academic credits, absence, class schedule, etc).