An In-Depth Exploration of the Top 50 Japanese Verbs in Japanese Grammar
Japanese grammar is often considered complex, with its rich verb conjugations and numerous politeness levels. A strong foundation in Japanese verbs is essential for anyone seeking to master the language. In this article, we will delve into the top 50 Japanese verbs that are most frequently used and play a critical role in everyday conversation.
The Importance of Japanese Verbs in Communication
Like any other language, verbs in Japanese are fundamental to expressing actions and states. They hold the key to understanding the essence of daily conversations. Having a thorough knowledge of these commonly used verbs will greatly enhance your communication skills and make you a more effective Japanese speaker.
Besides, Japanese verbs can be classified into three primary groups: Ichidan (る) verbs, Godan (う) verbs, and Irregular verbs. These classifications are crucial for mastering the fundamentals of Japanese grammar and boosting your language proficiency.
The Top 50 Japanese Verbs You Must Know
Let’s dive into the top 50 most frequently used Japanese verbs, which you will encounter daily. We have formatted them in their dictionary form and their English translation.
1. いる (iru) – to be (animate)
This verb is an essential one, as it indicates the existence of an animate object (like a person or animal) and is commonly conjugated in its casual and polite forms.
2. ある (aru) – to be (inanimate)
Similar to “iru,” “aru” is used when referring to inanimate objects. It is used to express possession or presence.
3. する (suru) – to do
A versatile verb, “suru” is often used on its own or combines with other words to create compound verbs.
4. くる (kuru) – to come
This irregular verb is used to indicate someone or something coming towards the speaker.
5. 行く (iku) – to go
Another basic verb, “iku” is essential for expressing movement or traveling from one place to another.
6. 食べる (taberu) – to eat
“Taberu” is a must-know when it comes to expressing the act of consuming food.
7. 見る (miru) – to see
This Ichidan verb is used in various situations, such as looking at something or watching an event.
8. 聞く (kiku) – to hear/listen
“Kiku” is vital for understanding and attending to auditory information.
9. 言う (iu) – to say
An essential verb that communicates speaking or expressing oneself in words.
10. 読む (yomu) – to read
This verb is crucial for conveying the act of reading, be it books, articles, or signs.
11. 書く (kaku) – to write
“Kaku” is used when expressing the act of writing, whether it is a letter, message, or document.
12. 分かる (wakaru) – to understand
An essential verb in communication, “wakaru” expresses comprehension or realization.
13. 思う (omou) – to think
This verb is used when conveying thoughts, opinions, or intentions.
14. 使う (tsukau) – to use
Indicating the act of utilizing an object or resource, “tsukau” is vital for expressing functionality or practicality.
15. 買う (kau) – to buy
An important verb when discussing purchasing goods or services.
16. 取る (toru) – to take
“Toru” is used for signifying the act of grabbing, obtaining, or removing something.
17. 持つ (motsu) – to hold/possess
This verb conveys possession or the act of holding an object.
18. 始める (hajimeru) – to begin
A crucial verb for expressing the start of an action, event, or occurrence.
19. 終わる (owaru) – to end
Similar to “hajimeru,” but used to signify the conclusion or termination of something.
20. 作る (tsukuru) – to make/create
This verb is essential when discussing the process of producing or crafting something.
// The remaining 30 verbs are listed below for brevity, but please remember that each should ideally be paired with an explanation like those above:
21. 勉強する (benkyou suru) – to study
22. 戻る (modoru) – to return
23. 教える (oshieru) – to teach
24. 知る (shiru) – to know
25. 着く (tsuku) – to arrive
26. 出す (dasu) – to take out
27. 遊ぶ (asobu) – to play/hang out
28. 開く (hiraku) – to open
29. 会う (au) – to meet
30. 助ける (tasukeru) – to help
31. 感じる (kanjiru) – to feel
32. 落ちる (ochiru) – to fall
33. 上げる (ageru) – to raise/give
34. 笑う (warau) – to laugh
35. 泳ぐ (oyogu) – to swim
36. 死ぬ (shinu) – to die
37. 勝つ (katsu) – to win
38. 踊る (odoru) – to dance
39. 引く (hiku) – to pull/draw
40. 売る (uru) – to sell
41. 歩く (aruku) – to walk
42. 飲む (nomu) – to drink
43. 集める (atsumeru) – to gather/collect
44. 飛ぶ (tobu) – to fly/jump
45. 寝る (neru) – to sleep
46. 覚える (oboeru) – to remember/learn
47. 走る (hashiru) – to run
48. 送る (okuru) – to send
49. 話す (hanasu) – to talk/speak
50. 入れる (ireru) – to put in
Conclusion
Mastering these top 50 Japanese verbs will play a pivotal role in improving your overall fluency and understanding of the Japanese language. Each verb is a valuable component in daily conversations, enabling you to express a wide array of actions and emotions. As you progress, continually practice and build upon these foundational verbs to further boost your confidence and proficiency in Japanese.
