How to Have Your First Japanese Conversation

The leap from studying to speaking is scary but essential. Here''s how to make your first conversation a success.

Prepare a few building blocks

• A self-introduction you can say without thinking.
• Rescue phrases: もう一度お願いします, ゆっくりお願いします, わかりません.
• Simple questions: お名前は？, 趣味は何ですか？

Embrace mistakes

Native speakers appreciate the effort far more than they mind errors. Every mistake is data that speeds up your learning.

Keep it simple

Use short sentences you''re confident in. You don''t need advanced grammar to have a friendly chat.

Where to practise

Language exchange partners, tutors, and classmates are ideal because they''re patient and encouraging.

The first conversation is the hardest. After it, speaking gets easier every single time.