Introduction
If you’re starting your Japanese language journey, the JLPT N5 is your first big milestone. A huge part of this exam is verbs—knowing how to recognize, understand, and use them correctly.
In this guide, we’ll break down all the essential JLPT N5 verbs, including:
- Godan (う-verbs)
- Ichidan (る-verbs)
- Irregular verbs
We’ll also cover conjugation patterns, real-life usage, and study tips to help you remember them easily.
Why Are Verbs Important for JLPT N5?
Verbs are the backbone of Japanese sentences. Without them, you can’t express actions, desires, or events. The JLPT N5 tests your ability to use basic verbs in everyday conversations.
Here’s what you need to know:
✅ Recognize common verbs in hiragana/kanji.
✅ Conjugate them correctly (present, past, negative forms).
✅ Use them in simple sentences.
Pro Tip: Flashcards and daily practice are the best ways to memorize these verbs quickly.
Types of Japanese Verbs
Japanese verbs fall into three main categories:
1. Godan Verbs (う-Verbs / 五段動詞)
These verbs end in -u, -ku, -gu, -su, -tsu, -nu, -bu, -mu, or -ru (but not all -ru verbs are Godan).
Example:
- 行く (いく, iku) – “to go”
- 話す (はなす, hanasu) – “to speak”
Conjugation Rule:
- Change the last kana before adding endings (e.g., 行く → 行かない ikanai “don’t go”).
2. Ichidan Verbs (る-Verbs / 一段動詞)
These verbs always end in -る and follow a simpler conjugation pattern.
Example:
- 食べる (たべる, taberu) – “to eat”
- 見る (みる, miru) – “to see”
Conjugation Rule:
- Drop the -る and add endings (e.g., 食べる → 食べます tabemasu “I eat”).
3. Irregular Verbs (不規則動詞)
Only two main irregular verbs exist at the N5 level:
- する (suru) – “to do”
- 来る (くる, kuru) – “to come”
These don’t follow standard rules, so you must memorize them separately.
Complete JLPT N5 Verb List
Here’s a detailed list of N5 verbs categorized by type:
Godan Verbs (う-Verbs)
| Verb (Kanji/Kana) | Romaji | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 会う (あう) | au | to meet |
| 聞く (きく) | kiku | to listen |
| 書く (かく) | kaku | to write |
| 読む (よむ) | yomu | to read |
| 話す (はなす) | hanasu | to speak |
| 待つ (まつ) | matsu | to wait |
| 飲む (のむ) | nomu | to drink |
| 買う (かう) | kau | to buy |
| 行く (いく) | iku | to go |
| 泳ぐ (およぐ) | oyogu | to swim |
📌 Pro Tip: Notice how the endings change in different forms (e.g., 行く → 行かない ikanai “won’t go”).
Ichidan Verbs (る-Verbs)
| Verb (Kanji/Kana) | Romaji | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 食べる (たべる) | taberu | to eat |
| 見る (みる) | miru | to see |
| 起きる (おきる) | okiru | to wake up |
| 寝る (ねる) | neru | to sleep |
| 出る (でる) | deru | to exit |
| 着る (きる) | kiru | to wear |
| 開ける (あける) | akeru | to open |
| 閉める (しめる) | shimeru | to close |
📌 Pro Tip: These are easier to conjugate—just drop -る and add endings (e.g., 食べる → 食べます tabemasu).
Irregular Verbs
| Verb (Kanji/Kana) | Romaji | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| する | suru | to do |
| 来る (くる) | kuru | to come |
📌 Pro Tip: These must be memorized since they don’t follow standard patterns (e.g., する → します shimasu).
How to Practice These Verbs Effectively
- Use Flashcards (Anki/Digital Apps) – Helps with memorization.
- Write Example Sentences – Apply verbs in real contexts.
- Listen & Repeat (Shadowing) – Improves pronunciation.
- Take Quizzes – Test yourself regularly.
📖 Recommended Resource: Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese (Great for grammar!)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mixing up Godan & Ichidan verbs (e.g., thinking 切る kiru is Ichidan when it’s Godan).
❌ Forgetting irregular conjugations (する → しません shimasen “don’t do”).
❌ Ignoring kanji – Even N5 tests basic kanji recognition.
Final Thoughts
Mastering JLPT N5 verbs is crucial for building a strong foundation in Japanese. By understanding Godan, Ichidan, and Irregular verbs, you’ll be able to form sentences, ask questions, and express daily actions confidently.
🔗 Want more JLPT tips? Check out our Master JLPT N5 Grammar: Complete Guide with Examples & Practice.
JLPT N5 Vocabulary Master List: 800+ Essential Words with Examples
Complete List of All JLPT N5 Kanji with Meanings and Stroke Order
Now, grab your flashcards and start practicing—you’ve got this! 🚀
