jat6 jyu5日語日语
Jyutpingjat6 jyu5
Yaleyaht yúh
Definition
The Japanese language.
neutralschoolcommunication
How it's used
While 日語 is the standard term for the language, native speakers often prefer using 日本話 in casual conversation. Using 日語 sounds slightly more formal or academic, similar to how one might distinguish between 'the Japanese language' and 'Japanese' in English. It is frequently seen in the names of courses, textbooks, or official departments.
Examples
He recently signed up for a Japanese class.
Related words
Common phrases
Japanese language course
Japanese language teacher
Common mistake
Avoid using 日文 to refer to the spoken language exclusively, as it specifically emphasizes the written script. While they are often interchangeable, 日本話 is the most natural choice for spoken communication.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- LocationHow to say where something is using 喺 (hai2), place words like 度, and the common coverbs that work like English prepositions.
- Serial verbsStringing two or more verbs together without any joining word, like go to the shop buy things. Extremely common in Cantonese.
- 將 disposalHow to move the object in front of the verb with 將, to focus on what happens to it. Common in instructions and writing.
