Japanese Basics
Your essential guide to Japanese grammar and usage
Japanese Basics
Browse the topics below to get started. On any page, tap the menu in the bar above to jump to another topic.
What You'll Learn
Comprehensive coverage across five areas, from writing systems to grammar patterns.
Foundation
12 topics
Writing systems, kana & kanji, pronunciation, sentence structure, particles, polite vs. plain forms, and more.
Conjugations
14 topics
All major verb conjugation forms, plus adjective and noun conjugation.
Patterns
19 topics
Grammar patterns for comparisons, desire, conjunctions, conditionals, and honorifics (keigo).
Everyday Essentials
8 topics
Numbers, counters, dates & time, directions, family terms, and units of measurement.
Quick Reference
2 topics
Interactive verb conjugation tables and a particle reference with labeled usage examples.
Built-in Word Lookup — Search for word definitions on any page — no need to leave your current topic.