N5 Study Links
JLPT N5 文字・語彙)
Vocabulary & Kanji Study Guide
The JLPT N5 is the beginner level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. A major part of this level is the Mojigoi (文字・語彙) section, which tests your ability to recognize kanji,
understand vocabulary, and apply basic word usage in context.
🧪 JLPT N5 Mojigoi – Test Format & Sample Questions
This section includes about 20–25 questions, divided into sub-sections like:
Section TypeExample Question
Style1. Kanji Reading
道を歩きます → (A) あるきます (B) はしります (C) のります (D) かきます
2. Word Meaning
みせ → (A) 学校 (B) 家 (C) 店 (D) 車
3. Sentence Completion
先生は( )にいます。→ (A) がっこう (B) せんせい (C) えいご (D) ごはん
4. Word UsageSelect the correct word to fit in context.
Example: パンを( )ます。→ (A) のみ (B) たべ (C) いき (D) かき
🧠 Study Tips for JLPT N5 Mojigoi
✅ 1. Master the Core Vocabulary (~800 Words)
Start with basic nouns, verbs, adjectives, and expressions used in everyday life. Recommended study sets include:
- Greetings: おはよう, こんにちは, さようなら
- Numbers & Time: 一、二、三、時、分
- Daily Life: 学校、先生、ごはん、ねる、たべる
✅ 2. Learn the 100 Basic Kanji
These kanji are essential for reading signs, directions, and simple sentences. Focus on:
- 日 (にち) – day
- 人 (ひと) – person
- 水 (みず) – water
- 行 (いく) – to go
Practice reading and writing kanji in real words, not just isolation.
✅ 3. Practice with Test-style Questions
Simulate real test conditions with JLPT-style quizzes and sample questions.
✅ 4. Use Learning Apps & Tools
- 🧠 Anki – Free flashcards with spaced repetition
- 📱 LingoDeer – Great for N5 grammar & vocab
- 💻 WaniKani – Helps with kanji and radicals
- 📚 Tae Kim’s Guide to Learning Japanese – Simple grammar explanations
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🎯 How to Pass JLPT N5 – Score Breakdown
SectionScore RangePassing Target (Estimated)Vocabulary & Grammar (文字語彙・文法)60 points38+ pointsListening60 points38+ pointsTotal Score Needed180 points80+ points (about 45%)
✅ You do not need a perfect score. Focus on accuracy and speed for common questions.
📌 Final Tips
- ✅ Start with hiragana and katakana before diving into kanji.
- ✅ Review vocabulary in context, not just as single words.
- ✅ Do daily mini-quizzes or flashcards to reinforce memory.
- ✅ Practice listening with JLPT N5-level audio (e.g., YouTube, NHK Easy News).
📚 Your First Step Toward Japanese Fluency Starts Here!
Prepare consistently and aim to understand rather than memorize.
がんばってください!