About

Welcome to Speakable Japanese

Hello! I'm Kyoji, the creator of "Speakable Japanese."

If you've ever lost motivation in front of a thick textbook or felt that maybe you're just not cut out for learning languages, then this site is for you.

The Struggle with Traditional Learning

Let me ask you a question: Do you actually like "studying" languages?

The world is full of "efficient learning methods," almost always taught by "gifted people" who are already fluent. They say, "Just memorize this vocabulary list," or "Master this grammar." But behind that advice is the unspoken assumption that you possess the iron willpower to endure tedious memorization.

To be honest, I couldn't do it.

As a native Japanese speaker, I tried to learn English countless times, and every single time, I gave up. I have vivid memories of thick vocabulary books where only the first 10 pages were worn and dog-eared, while the rest remained pristine white. I even started to think, "I'm a failure because I can't study."

The Realization That Changed Everything

Then one day, I had a realization. Maybe the problem wasn't just my own lack of willpower. Maybe the very idea of trying to memorize a massive amount of information is the wrong approach for people who "can't stick with studying" in the first place.

What’s important is to minimize what you need to memorize and focus on becoming able to "speak" perfectly, even if it’s just within a narrow range of topics. That small taste of success is the best fuel to keep you going.

This realization saved my own English studies. And I thought it could help Japanese learners who were struggling with the same issues, which led me to develop the "Speakable Japanese" method.

I am not a language expert. In fact, I wasn't "gifted" enough to become one. But precisely because of that, I believe I can be a better companion for you, someone who understands the feeling of stumbling and wanting to give up along the learning journey.

A "Compass" Before a "Map"

Many learning sites try to hand you a thick "map." But as someone who has experienced failure, I want to first give you a "compass" that is essential for the adventure. That compass is the heart of this site: the "Speaking Patterns." Let's start by building up small successes of "I was able to say what I wanted to say!" using the 42 patterns—the essential minimum required for conversation.

Of course, along the way, you might get lost or want to enjoy the scenery. For those times, I have also prepared a detailed "map" in the form of the "Grammar" pages, and specialized articles in "Natural Japanese" to deepen your understanding.

Your Adventure Begins Here

It doesn't matter where you start. If I can ultimately help you find the supreme joy of being "able to speak," there is no greater happiness for me.

Now, take this compass in hand, and begin your adventure!