Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT): Vocabulary Required for Each Level134

The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is an internationally recognized standardized test that measures the proficiency of non-native speakers in Japanese. It is divided into five levels: N5, N4, N3, N2, and N1, with N5 being the most basic and N1 being the most advanced.

N5

The N5 level is the entry-level JLPT exam. It tests basic Japanese vocabulary and grammar, with a focus on survival communication. The vocabulary required for this level includes:*
Greetings (e.g., hello, goodbye)
Self-introductions (e.g., name, nationality, occupation)
Basic numbers (0-100)
Common nouns (e.g., house, table, book)
Simple verbs (e.g., to be, to have, to eat)
Adjectives (e.g., big, small, good)

N4

The N4 level is the intermediate-level JLPT exam. It tests more advanced Japanese vocabulary and grammar, with a focus on everyday communication. The vocabulary required for this level includes:*
More complex nouns (e.g., hospital, school, restaurant)
More advanced verbs (e.g., to think, to know, to like)
Adverbs (e.g., quickly, slowly, carefully)
Pronouns (e.g., I, you, he/she)
Basic kanji (e.g., 人, 日, 本)

N3

The N3 level is the upper-intermediate JLPT exam. It tests advanced Japanese vocabulary and grammar, with a focus on business and academic communication. The vocabulary required for this level includes:*
Specialized vocabulary (e.g., business terms, academic terms)
More complex kanji (e.g., 会社, 学校, 先生)
Idioms and expressions
Proverbs and sayings

N2

The N2 level is the advanced JLPT exam. It tests professional-level Japanese vocabulary and grammar. The vocabulary required for this level includes:*
Highly specialized vocabulary (e.g., legal terms, medical terms)
Complex kanji (e.g., 経済, 政治, 社会)
Advanced grammar structures
Literary and cultural references

N1

The N1 level is the most advanced JLPT exam. It tests native-level Japanese vocabulary and grammar. The vocabulary required for this level includes:*
All vocabulary tested at N5-N2 levels
Extensive knowledge of kanji (over 2,000)
Advanced grammar structures
In-depth knowledge of Japanese literature and culture

Tips for Preparing for the JLPT

To prepare for the JLPT, it is important to:*
Set realistic goals
Develop a study plan
Focus on vocabulary building
Practice reading and listening comprehension
Take practice tests

Conclusion

The JLPT is a valuable tool for assessing Japanese language proficiency. By understanding the vocabulary required for each level, you can better prepare for the exam and achieve your language goals.

2025-01-25

Previous：How to Pronounce Korean

Next：How to Read and Pronounce Japanese Words: Lesson 13