Introduction
If you’re just starting your Japanese learning journey, the JLPT N5 is the perfect first milestone. As the easiest level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), it covers basic vocabulary, grammar, and kanji. But where do you begin?
One of the biggest challenges for beginners is memorizing essential Japanese words. That’s why we’ve compiled this ultimate JLPT N5 vocabulary list—200 must-know words to help you build a strong foundation.
In this guide, you’ll get:
✅ A categorized JLPT N5 vocabulary list (with romaji & English meanings)
✅ Practical examples to use in daily conversations
✅ Pronunciation tips to sound more natural
✅ Study strategies to memorize words faster
✅ Helpful resources (apps, books, and websites)
Let’s dive in!
Why Is JLPT N5 Vocabulary Important?
Before jumping into the word list, let’s understand why JLPT N5 vocabulary matters:
- Daily Communication Basics – These words appear in simple conversations, greetings, and everyday situations.
- Foundation for Higher Levels – N5 words are building blocks for N4, N3, and beyond.
- Boosts Confidence – Recognizing common words helps in reading signs, menus, and basic texts.
If you’re serious about learning Japanese, memorizing these words is non-negotiable.
JLPT N5 Vocabulary List: 200 Essential Words
To make learning easier, we’ve organized the words into categories:
1. Greetings & Common Phrases
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| こんにちは | Konnichiwa | Hello |
| ありがとう | Arigatou | Thank you |
| すみません | Sumimasen | Excuse me / Sorry |
| おはようございます | Ohayou gozaimasu | Good morning |
| こんばんは | Konbanwa | Good evening |
Pro Tip: Japanese greetings change based on time of day. Practice using them correctly!
📌 Internal Link: Learn Basic Japanese Greetings (With Audio)
2. Numbers & Counting
Mastering numbers is crucial for shopping, telling time, and more.
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| 一 | Ichi | One |
| 二 | Ni | Two |
| 三 | San | Three |
| 四 | Shi / Yon | Four |
| 五 | Go | Five |
Did You Know? The number 4 (shi) sounds like “death,” so yon is often used instead.
📌 Outbound Link: Japanese Counter Words Guide
3. Time & Days of the Week
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| 今日 | Kyou | Today |
| 明日 | Ashita | Tomorrow |
| 月曜日 | Getsuyoubi | Monday |
| 時間 | Jikan | Time |
| 今 | Ima | Now |
Practical Use: Try making simple sentences like “今何時ですか?” (Ima nanji desu ka?) – “What time is it now?”
4. Common Verbs (Action Words)
Verbs are essential for forming sentences. Here are 10 must-know JLPT N5 verbs:
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| 食べる | Taberu | To eat |
| 飲む | Nomu | To drink |
| 行く | Iku | To go |
| 見る | Miru | To see/watch |
| する | Suru | To do |
Grammar Insight: Japanese verbs change forms (e.g., taberu → tabemasu for politeness).
📌 Internal Link: Japanese Verb Conjugation Guide
5. Basic Adjectives (Descriptive Words)
Adjectives help describe objects, people, and feelings.
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| 大きい | Ookii | Big |
| 小さい | Chiisai | Small |
| いい | Ii | Good |
| 悪い | Warui | Bad |
| 楽しい | Tanoshii | Fun |
Example Sentence:
- この本は大きいです。 (Kono hon wa ookii desu.) – “This book is big.”
6. Family & People
| Japanese | Romaji | English |
|---|---|---|
| 家族 | Kazoku | Family |
| 母 | Haha | Mother |
| 父 | Chichi | Father |
| 友達 | Tomodachi | Friend |
| 先生 | Sensei | Teacher |
Note: Haha and chichi are used when referring to your own parents. For others, use okaasan and otousan.
How to Memorize JLPT N5 Vocabulary Effectively
Simply reading a list isn’t enough—active recall is key. Here’s how to retain these words long-term:
1. Use Flashcards (Spaced Repetition)
- Apps like Anki and Memrise use SRS (Spaced Repetition System) to reinforce memory.
- Pro Tip: Add example sentences to flashcards for context.
📌 Outbound Link: Best Flashcard Apps for Japanese
2. Practice with Real-Life Examples
- Label household items with sticky notes (e.g., ドア (doa) – door).
- Watch Japanese kids’ shows like “Shirokuma Cafe”—they use simple vocabulary.
3. Speak from Day 1
- Use words in daily conversations (even if just talking to yourself).
- Join language exchange communities like HelloTalk.
📌 Internal Link: How to Practice Japanese Speaking Alone
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Pronunciation – Japanese has pitch accents. Mispronouncing はし (hashi) can mean “chopsticks” or “bridge.”
- Relying Only on Romaji – Transition to hiragana/katakana ASAP.
- Cramming Without Review – Consistent 5-10 minute daily practice beats last-minute cramming.
Final Thoughts
Mastering JLPT N5 vocabulary is your first step toward fluency. By learning these 200 essential words, you’ll:
✔ Understand basic conversations
✔ Read simple texts
✔ Build confidence for higher JLPT levels
Ready to test your knowledge? Try this free JLPT N5 quiz!
📌 Internal Link: JLPT N5 Practice Test
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to learn JLPT N5 vocabulary?
A: With daily practice, most learners memorize these words in 1-3 months.
Q: Should I learn kanji for N5?
A: Yes! N5 includes ~80 basic kanji. Start with simple ones like 日 (hi – day) and 人 (hito – person).
Q: What’s next after N5?
A: Move to JLPT N4, which introduces more complex grammar and 300+ new words.
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📌 More Helpful Resources:
Now, grab your notebook and start practicing—ganbatte! (Good luck!) 🚀
