The Easiest Method to Learn Kanji.
One of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of studying Japanese is the acquisition of kanji. Numerous learners experience feelings of intimidation prior to commencing their studies, as there are more than 2,000 frequently employed characters (referred to as the Jōyō Kanji). But there is no need for concern; there is a simpler method of learning kanji that does not necessitate rote memorization or exhaustion. This blog will deconstruct a structured and intelligent method for learning kanji in a manner that is both effective and efficient.
- Comprehend the Definition of Kanji
Before delving into study methods, it is beneficial to comprehend the concept of kanji. Kanji are Chinese characters that were incorporated into the Japanese writing system. Depending on the context, each character has a meaning and typically multiple readings (pronunciations).
For instance,
木 (tree) is pronounced as “ki” in kunyomi (native Japanese reading) and “moku” in onyomi (Sino-Japanese reading).
Kanji is employed in nearly every Japanese sentence, with a particular emphasis on adjectives, verbs, and nouns. Therefore, the acquisition of kanji is mandatory for the purposes of reading and writing in Japanese.
- Prioritize the Kanji that are most frequently encountered.
Rather than endeavoring to acquire all 2,000 characters simultaneously, it is more effective to begin with the most frequently used ones. The Jōyō Kanji list comprises 2,136 characters that are officially employed in government documents and education.
Commence with:
The initial 100 kanji utilized in the JLPT N5 (fundamental level).
Gradually advance to N4, N3, and so forth.
Level-based learning is facilitated by applications such as WaniKani, Kanji Study, and books such as Remembering the Kanji by Heisig.
- Acquire knowledge of kanji radicals At first
Kanji is composed of radicals. The majority of kanji are composed of lesser components known as radicals, which frequently provide indications of the character’s meaning or pronunciation.
For instance,
The radical 氵 (three water droplets) is present in numerous kanji that are associated with water, including 海 (sea), 泳 (swim), and 河 (river).
By acquiring knowledge of radicals, you will be able to identify patterns more quickly and more easily infermeanings.
Simple method:
Begin with the 50 most prevalent radicals.
Utilize flashcards or applications to facilitate their retention.
Experiment with the identification of radicals in the complete kanji.
- Employ stories and mnemonics
Mnemonics are memory aids that facilitate the retention of intricate information by associating it with an image, narrative, or concept.
For instance,
火 (fire) is characterized by the appearance of a smoldering stick with flames.
To create 火山 (kazan = volcano), combine 火 (fire) and 山 (mountain). Visualize a mountain that is spewing fire!
These methods are employed by applications such as KanjiDamage, Anki, and WaniKani to assist in the development of memory connections.
It can also be beneficial to generate one’s own narratives, as personal associations are simpler to recall.
- Engage in writing exercises, but refrain from overdoing it.
Recalling the stroke order and structure can be facilitated by writing kanji by hand. However, refrain from wasting hours repeatedly composing the same character. Instead, recite the meaning and write the sentence multiple times while reading it aloud.
Suggestions:
Write basic sentences using new kanji to practice writing in context.
Use printable workbooks or applications such as Skritter to determine the order of strokes.
Acquire the appropriate stroke order; it facilitates aesthetics and recognition.
While writing is beneficial, your primary objective should be to effectively comprehend and recognize kanji.
- Read as much as possible
Kanji can be effectively reinforced through reading. You will observe them in real-world scenarios, which facilitates their retention in your memory more effectively than flashcards alone.
Commence with:
Books for children or graded learners
Manga featuring furigana (tiny hiragana above the kanji)
(News in basic Japanese) NHK Easy News
Utilize a tool such as Yomichan or Rikaikun to hover over kanji on websites and instantaneously view their meanings and readings.
Reading kanji on a daily basis—even for a mere five to ten minutes—will induce a sense of familiarity.
- Employ Spaced Repetition Flashcards (SRS)
SRS is a system that displays kanji just as you are on the brink of forgetting them. This is one of the most effective methods for long-term memorization of vocabulary and characters.
Primary instruments:
Anki (free, customizable, and featuring a plethora of kanji decks)
WaniKani (paid, but highly effective for vocab and kanji)
Quizlet (suitable for novices)
Ensure that your flashcards contain the following:
The characters
Readings (onyomi and kunyomi)
Meaning in the English language
Example of a term or sentence
Review them on a daily basis. It is a modest investment of 10–15 minutes, yet it yields substantial results.
- Implement Kanji in Practical Situations
In order to effectively retain kanji, it is recommended that you apply it in practical scenarios:
Place Japanese labels on objects in your residence.
Maintain a daily journal that incorporates the kanji you have acquired.
Use kanji to communicate with a Japanese-speaking acquaintance or tutor.
Join a Japanese Discord group or leave a comment on social media posts.
When kanji is integrated into one’s daily routine, it ceases to be perceived as “study” and becomes more natural.
- Do not be concerned with readings; instead, concentrate on the words.
The number of kanji characters that have multiple interpretations can be quite overwhelming. One effective approach to addressing this issue is to concentrate on the acquisition of words, rather than individual kanji.
For instance,
生 can be interpreted as sei (life), shou (lifetime), nama (draft beer), or ikiru (to live).
Confusion may result from an attempt to memorize all passages simultaneously. However, when you acquire the kanji in words, you will naturally remember the correct reading through usage.
- Maintain a Consistent Approach and Exercise Patience
Learning kanji is a marathon, not a sprint. Kanji is acquired by Japanese citizens during their academic careers. Avoid haste. Establish it as a minor daily routine, similar to cleansing one’s teeth.
Suggestions:
Engage in the study of 5–10 kanji per day.
Review on a regular basis.
Reward yourself for minor accomplishments.
For motivation, consider joining a language group or community.
Celebrate minor victories, such as identifying a kanji on a signboard, reading a tweet in Japanese, or writing your name in kanji. Each action is significant.
Concluding thoughts
Learning kanji does not have to be a traumatic experience. It is even possible to enjoy the process with the appropriate instruments, a structured approach, and a little creativity. Concentrate on comprehending the fundamental components, employing memory strategies, and engaging in daily practice in a practical setting. Avoid striving for perfection; rather, maintain a consistent.