Learning the Japanese language can be an exciting yet challenging journey, especially for Nepali learners. With its unique scripts, sentence structure, and cultural nuances, Japanese demands both discipline and strategy. However, many learners unknowingly fall into common traps that slow down their progress or lead to confusion.

In this article, we’ll explore the top mistakes Nepali learners make while learning Japanese and share practical solutions to help you learn smarter and faster.

Over-reliance on Romaji (Roman Letters)

Mistake: Many beginners use Romaji (Japanese written using English alphabets) for too long and avoid learning Hiragana and Katakana.

Why it’s a problem: Romaji can be helpful at the start, but it becomes a crutch. It limits your reading skills and makes it harder to transition to real Japanese texts and materials.

Solution:

1.      Learn Hiragana and Katakana in the first 1–2 weeks of study.

2.      Practice writing them by hand for better memory retention.

3.      Use flashcards and apps like "Kana Town" or "Dr. Moku".

Memorizing Vocabulary Without Understanding Context

Mistake: Learners often try to memorize long vocabulary lists without knowing how or when to use the words.

Why it’s a problem: Vocabulary without context is meaningless. For example, learning the word kiku (聞く) without knowing that it means “to listen” in some contexts and “to ask” in others can lead to misuse.

Solution:

1.      Learn words in sentences or with example phrases.

2.      Use context-based resources like "Tae Kim’s Guide" or the "JLPT Official Workbook".

3.      Practice new words in your own sentences or while chatting with native speakers.

Translating Directly from Nepali or English

Mistake: Many students try to form Japanese sentences by directly translating from Nepali or English.

Why it’s a problem: Japanese grammar is structurally different. For instance, in English we say "I eat an apple", but in Japanese, it becomes "I apple eat" (私はリンゴを食べます).

Solution:

1.      Learn to think in Japanese rather than translating.

2.      Focus on Japanese sentence patterns (bunkei) like:

3.      「AはBです」(A wa B desu – A is B)

4.      Use language immersion tools like anime with Japanese subtitles, or easy Japanese news.

Ignoring Politeness Levels (Keigo)

Mistake: Beginners often ignore politeness forms, especially the use of desu/masu and honorific expressions (keigo 敬語).

Why it’s a problem: In Japanese culture, politeness is critical. Using informal forms in formal situations can come off as disrespectful.

Solution:

1.      Learn basic teineigo (polite form) early on.

2.      Practice common polite phrases used in daily life like:

3.      お願いします (onegai shimasu – please)

4.      ありがとうございます (arigatou gozaimasu – thank you)

Gradually study keigo when reaching intermediate level, especially if you plan to work or study in Japan.

Lack of Speaking and Listening Practice

Mistake: Focusing only on reading and writing, while avoiding speaking and listening.

Why it’s a problem: Language is for communication. If you don’t train your ears and mouth, you’ll struggle to understand or respond in real conversations.

Solution:

1.      Watch Japanese YouTube channels, podcasts, or anime with Japanese audio.

2.      Join online conversation clubs or language exchanges (Tandem, HelloTalk).

3.      Practice shadowing (repeat after a native speaker with matching intonation).

Final Advice: Learn Japanese With a Balanced Approach

Here’s a simple roadmap for Nepali learners:

✅ Start with Hiragana and Katakana

✅ Learn basic sentence structures, not isolated words

✅ Speak from day one, even if it's just short sentences

✅ Respect politeness levels and cultural etiquette

✅ Surround yourself with Japanese language through media and daily practice

Conclusion

Learning Japanese can be a deeply rewarding journey—opening doors to education, job opportunities, and cultural connection. Avoiding these common mistakes can make your progress smoother and faster. Most importantly, don’t aim for perfection—aim for communication and consistency.