Welcome to this guide on how to say “Japanese class” in Japanese! Learning how to express this phrase is essential if you want to navigate through language learning environments or inquire about classes in Japan. In this guide, we will cover both formal and informal ways to say “Japanese class,” along with some useful tips and examples to help you on your language learning journey.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Japanese Class”
When you need to use a formal expression for “Japanese class,” you can choose between two common phrases:
- にほんごのクラス – Nihongo no kurasu: In this phrase, “にほんご” (nihongo) means “Japanese,” and “クラス” (kurasu) translates to “class.” You can use this phrase when referring to formal, structured language classes, typically offered at educational institutions or language schools. For example:
先生、にほんごのクラスはいつ始まりますか？
Sensei, nihongo no kurasu wa itsu hajimarimasu ka?
Teacher, when does the Japanese class start? - にほんごのレッスン – Nihongo no ressun: This phrase is similar to the previous one, but instead of “クラス” (kurasu), we use “レッスン” (ressun), meaning “lesson.” “レッスン” (ressun) can convey a sense of individualized or focused instruction. This term is often employed when referring to private language tutoring or one-on-one sessions. For example:
私は週に2回にほんごのレッスンを受けています。
Watashi wa shū ni kai nihongo no ressun o ukete imasu.
I receive Japanese lessons twice a week.
Informal Ways to Say “Japanese Class”
When speaking in casual settings or with friends, you can use the following more laid-back expressions:
- にほんごのクラス – Nihongo no kurasu: This phrase remains the same as in formal language, but using it in an informal context signals a more relaxed atmosphere. For instance:
明日、一緒ににほんごのクラス行く？
Ashita, issho ni nihongo no kurasu iku?
Hey, do you want to go to Japanese class together tomorrow? - にほんごのレッスン – Nihongo no ressun: Similarly, you can use “にほんごのレッスン” (nihongo no ressun) in informal contexts to refer to Japanese classes. This phrasing is common among friends or peers. For example:
今度、一緒ににほんごのレッスンに行こうよ！
Kondo, issho ni nihongo no ressun ni ikō yo!
Let’s go to a Japanese lesson together next time!
Additional Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to enhance your understanding of how to say “Japanese class” in Japanese:
1. Utilizing Particles
Japanese particles play a crucial role in sentence structure. When talking about going to or attending Japanese classes, you can use the particle “に” (ni) to indicate the destination or purpose. For example:
私は来週からにほんごのクラスに通います。
Watashi wa raishū kara nihongo no kurasu ni kayoimasu.
I will attend Japanese class starting next week.
2. Adding Time Indicators
When referring to the timing of a Japanese class, you can include time indicators such as days of the week or specific time periods. Here’s an example:
毎週火曜日の午後にほんごのレッスンがあります。
Maishū kayōbi no gogo nihongo no ressun ga arimasu.
There is a Japanese lesson every Tuesday afternoon.
3. Speaking about Studying Japanese
If you want to express the action of studying Japanese without focusing on attending a class, you can use the verb “べんきょうする” (benkyō suru), which means “to study.” Combine it with “にほんご” (nihongo) to convey that you are specifically studying the Japanese language:
時間がないけど、毎日にほんごを勉強しています。
Jikan ga nai kedo, mainichi nihongo o benkyō shite imasu.
I don’t have much time, but I study Japanese every day.
Remember to use these phrases according to the formality of the situation and your relationship with the person you are speaking to. Now you have the tools to confidently talk about Japanese classes in various contexts.
