Learning how to say “learned” in Japanese is an essential step in your journey to mastering the language. Whether you’re expressing your own progress or discussing someone else’s educational achievements, it’s important to understand the formal and informal ways to convey this concept. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various ways to express the idea of “learned” in Japanese, including regional variations when necessary. From useful tips to practical examples, let’s dive into the rich world of Japanese vocabulary!
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Formal Ways to Say “Learned”
In formal situations, when speaking to seniors, teachers, or superiors, it’s essential to use polite forms of expression. Here are some formal phrases you can use to communicate the idea of having learned something.
1. 習得しました (Shūtoku shimashita)
The phrase “習得しました” is a polite way to say “learned” in Japanese. This expression is widely used in formal situations when discussing the acquisition of knowledge or skills. Let’s look at an example:
A: 「新しいプログラミング言語を習得しましたか？」
(Shinshii puroguramingu gengo o shutoku shimashita ka?)
B: 「はい、Pythonを習得しました。」
(Hai, Python o shutoku shimashita.)A: “Have you learned a new programming language?”
B: “Yes, I have learned Python.”
2. 学びました (Manabimashita)
Another formal way to say “learned” is by using the verb “学びました” (manabimashita). This expression is commonly used when discussing academic subjects or knowledge gained through studying. Check out the following example:
A: 「昨年、大学で数学を学びましたか？」
(Sakunen, daigaku de suugaku o manabimashita ka?)
B: 「はい、線形代数学を学びました。」
(Hai, senkei daigaku o manabimashita.)A: “Did you learn mathematics at university last year?”
B: “Yes, I learned linear algebra.”
Informal Ways to Say “Learned”
In informal environments or when speaking with friends, family, or colleagues of the same or lower status, you can use less formal expressions to talk about learning experiences. Let’s explore some casual phrases commonly used in such situations.
1. 覚えた (Oboeta)
When discussing personal learning experiences with acquaintances or friends, you can use the phrase “覚えた” (oboeta), which translates to “learned.” This expression is more common in casual conversations. Here’s an example:
A: 「最近、どんなことを覚えた？」
(Saikin, donna koto o oboeta?)
B: 「新しい曲のコードを覚えたよ。」
(Atarashii kyoku no kōdo o oboeta yo.)A: “What have you learned recently?”
B: “I learned the chords of a new song.”
2. 勉強した (Benkyō shita)
The phrase “勉強した” (benkyō shita) can be used in informal contexts to convey the idea of having “studied” or “learned.” It can be used when discussing various subjects or skills acquired through personal efforts. Let’s take a look at an example:
A: 「最近、どんなことを勉強したの？」
(Saikin, donna koto o benkyō shita no?)
B: 「フランス料理を勉強したよ。」
(Furansu ryōri o benkyō shita yo.)A: “What have you studied recently?”
B: “I studied French cuisine.”
Regional Variations
While the above expressions are commonly used throughout Japan, it’s worth mentioning that regional variations may exist. In some areas, local dialects or phrases might be used to convey the concept of “learned.” If you are in a specific region and want to blend in, it would be helpful to learn any regional variations. However, in most cases, the formal and informal phrases discussed earlier will suffice in standard Japanese.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve learned various ways to express the idea of “learned” in Japanese, both in formal and informal contexts. Remember to adapt your language depending on the situation and the person you are speaking to. Whether you use the polite “習得しました” (shūtoku shimashita) or the casual “覚えた” (oboeta), your choice of expression will contribute to effective communication and cultural understanding. Keep practicing and expanding your Japanese vocabulary, and may your language learning journey be filled with success and joy!
