Quote:
Originally Posted by RAKEL
Im going to japan in a couple of months and I would like to learn the basics of japanese. I wonder what to start with and whats important to know in the beginning. If anyone would like to teach me a little Id be glad, but firstly I want some advice on how to organize my studies.
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If your just going to be a tourist then i recomend buying a book like japanese for dummies or something from the "teach yourself" series. no alphabets to learn, gets you right into speaking level and one of the first things you'll learn is how to ask someone to read something for you - perfect. you'll be able to get yourself around confidently in no time!
Quote:
Originally Posted by SSJup81
Of course, the best way to learn any language is to take formal classes.
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Disagreed, sorry. My friend is in a year 2 class and he doesnt know any of the alphabets apart from 「モ」 and his speaking and listening is poor to say the least and hes top of the class. Ive studied for the same length of time on my own through books and
AJATT just doing what i have time for, (no so many hours a day or any of that rubbish) and without blowing my own trumpet.. I'm much better than he is.
If your taking classes, how long have you studied and what can you "do" for lack of better words? Please dont take this the wrong way, im not trying to offend you (or anyone else taking classes) or trying to start a silly argument, I'm only basing this argument on my friends abilities being top of his class. I just don't think classes are the best idea.
Quote:
Originally Posted by MiraHirana
I would advise you to now romaji but not to use it as a crutch or you'll just make it hard on yourself. Watch anime in Japanese with English subtitles to hear the language. Study basic phrases so you can make it around Japan easily. Learn to read maps,etc.
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Also disagreed. If your using subtitles, your not listening, your reading. The voice that talks in your head when you read (you know what i mean) will take over the japanese and you wont hear anything.
mostly, subtitles match will not because being said different is.
I think you see my point.