24 Essential Japanese Phrases for Saying “I Am Learning Japanese

Learning Japanese is an exciting adventure. It opens up a new world of culture, people, and opportunities.

Whether you’re just starting or brushing up on your skills, knowing how to say “I am learning Japanese” in various ways comes in handy. It’s a great conversation starter and shows your enthusiasm.

Japanese is a beautiful language with rich expressions. Mastering even a few phrases can boost your confidence and help you connect with native speakers.

This article is packed with 24 essential phrases to say “I am learning Japanese.” From casual chats to polite conversations, you’ll find something for every situation.

Learning these phrases not only improves your speaking skills but also deepens your understanding of Japanese culture and manners.

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into these warm, relatable, and easy-to-use Japanese phrases that will make your language journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Why Saying “I Am Learning Japanese” Matters

Introducing yourself as a learner is a simple but powerful way to engage others. It invites support and friendly exchanges.

When you share your language learning journey, people often become more patient and encouraging. This positive interaction can motivate you to keep going.

Plus, it sets the tone for authentic conversations, making language practice feel natural and fun.

Sometimes, using a great beginner phrasebook can give you a perfect starting point for a cohesive understanding.

These phrases are designed for real-life use, easy to remember, and adaptable for different occasions.

With consistent practice, you’ll find yourself naturally slipping these phrases into conversation.

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. Japanese: 日本語を勉強しています (Nihongo o benkyou shiteimasu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh sh-teh-ee-mahss)

This is a straightforward way to say “I am studying Japanese.”

“日本語 (Nihongo)” means “Japanese language,” “を (o)” marks the object, and “勉強しています (benkyou shiteimasu)” means “am studying.” It’s polite yet casual enough for everyday use.

Using the continuous form shows you’re actively learning right now.

It’s a phrase you can use with friends, teachers, or new acquaintances.

You can also say “勉強中 (benkyou chuu),” which means “in the middle of studying,” for something shorter and casual.

Keep using this phrase to express your dedication and progress clearly!

2. Japanese: 日本語を勉強中です (Nihongo o benkyou chuu desu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh choo dess)

This phrase means “I am currently studying Japanese.”

It’s simple and effective, with “勉強中 (benkyou chuu)” meaning “studying/in the middle of studying.” Adding “です (desu)” makes it polite.

It’s a great alternative to “勉強しています” and can sound a little more casual yet respectful.

Be careful not to confuse “勉強中” with past tense phrases; this one emphasizes current action.

Example: When someone asks what you’re doing, reply with this to show your focus.

Using this phrase regularly helps you sound natural and engaged in your studies.

3. Japanese: 日本語を習っています (Nihongo o naratteimasu) – (Nee-hon-go oh nah-rah-tteh-ee-mahss)

This means “I am learning Japanese,” focusing on the learning process.

“習う (narau)” means “to learn,” and “習っています (naratteimasu)” is its continuous form. It’s a bit more formal and commonly used when you take lessons.

This phrase works well when talking about formal study settings.

It subtly implies you have a teacher or structured learning.

Try this phrase when introducing yourself in a class or language exchange.

It’s a polite and accurate way to describe your learning journey.

4. Japanese: 日本語を勉強したいです (Nihongo o benkyou shitai desu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh sh-tie dess)

This phrase means “I want to study Japanese.”

“したいです (shitai desu)” expresses desire, so you’re sharing your motivation openly.

It’s a positive phrase that invites encouragement and shows your enthusiasm.

Make sure to pronounce the “shi” clearly to avoid confusion with similar words.

Perfect when telling someone you’re just starting or planning to learn Japanese.

Use this to express your goals and spark supportive conversations.

5. Japanese: 日本語が話せるようになりたいです (Nihongo ga hanaseru you ni naritai desu) – (Nee-hon-go gah hah-nah-seh-roo yoh-nee nah-ree-tie dess)

This phrase means “I want to become able to speak Japanese.”

It’s a bit longer but very clear about your goal of speaking ability.

“話せる (hanaseru)” means “can speak,” “ようになりたい (you ni naritai)” means “want to become able to.”

It’s great for expressing ambition and progress in conversations.

Be mindful to pronounce the “you” like “yo” and “nari” as “nah-ree.”

Using this phrase shows you’re serious about improving your spoken Japanese.

6. Japanese: 日本語の勉強を始めました (Nihongo no benkyou o hajimemashita) – (Nee-hon-go no ben-kyoh oh hah-jee-meh-mah-shee-tah)

This phrase means “I have started studying Japanese.”

It’s perfect to share when you’re a newbie or recently began your studies.

“始めました (hajimemashita)” is the past tense of “to start,” signaling a fresh beginning.

Pronounce it smoothly as “hah-jee-meh-mah-shee-tah” for clarity.

You can use this phrase to let others know you’re at the exciting start of your journey.

It opens up opportunities for advice and support from experienced learners.

7. Japanese: 日本語に挑戦しています (Nihongo ni chousen shiteimasu) – (Nee-hon-go nee choh-sen sh-teh-ee-mahss)

This phrase means “I am challenging myself with Japanese.”

It conveys determination and a positive attitude towards learning.

“挑戦する (chousen suru)” means “to challenge,” so this phrase highlights your effort.

It’s a motivating way to express your commitment and grit.

Use it when you want to sound more enthusiastic or serious about your studies.

This phrase is great for inspiring yourself and others!

8. Japanese: 日本語が上手になりたいです (Nihongo ga jouzu ni naritai desu) – (Nee-hon-go gah joh-zoo nee nah-ree-tie dess)

This means “I want to become good at Japanese.”

“上手 (jouzu)” means “skillful” or “good at,” and “なりたい (naritai)” means “want to become.”

It’s a humble and clear way to express your desire to improve.

Be careful with the pronunciation of “jouzu” as “joh-zoo.”

You can use this when chatting with friends or teachers to express your learning goals.

This phrase shows your positive mindset and respect for the language.

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. Japanese: 日本語を勉強しております (Nihongo o benkyou shite orimasu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh sh-teh oh-ree-mahss)

This is a very polite way to say “I am studying Japanese.”

“しております” is the humble form of “しています,” often used in formal settings.

It’s perfect for business meetings, interviews, or formal introductions.

Pronounce it carefully to maintain respectfulness.

Use this phrase to show professionalism and seriousness.

It helps convey your respect for the listener and your learning effort.

10. Japanese: 日本語を学んでおります (Nihongo o manande orimasu) – (Nee-hon-go oh mah-nahn-deh oh-ree-mahss)

This phrase means “I am humbly learning Japanese.”

“学ぶ (manabu)” means “to learn” in a formal sense, and “しております” adds humility.

It’s often used in written communication or polite speech.

Make sure to pronounce “manande” smoothly to sound natural.

This phrase is excellent for academic or professional contexts.

It signals your dedication and respect for the language and culture.

11. Japanese: 日本語を勉強させていただいております (Nihongo o benkyou sasete itadaite orimasu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh sah-seh-teh ee-tah-dah-ee-teh oh-ree-mahss)

This is a very humble and polite phrase meaning “I am allowed to study Japanese.”

It shows gratitude and respect, often used in formal or business settings.

Though a mouthful, it’s appreciated for its politeness.

Practice the rhythm to sound smooth and sincere.

Use this when speaking to superiors or in official meetings.

It reflects both your learning and your humility.

12. Japanese: 日本語を勉強しているところです (Nihongo o benkyou shiteiru tokoro desu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh sh-teh-ee-roo toh-koh dess)

This phrase means “I am in the process of studying Japanese.”

“ところです” adds nuance, indicating you’re currently engaged in the activity.

It’s polite and informative, great for formal conversations.

Make sure to keep the intonation polite and calm.

Use this to politely explain your language learning status.

It helps others understand and appreciate your effort.

13. Japanese: 日本語の勉強を続けています (Nihongo no benkyou o tsuzuketeimasu) – (Nee-hon-go no ben-kyoh oh tsu-zoo-keh-teh-ee-mahss)

This means “I am continuing to study Japanese.”

It expresses ongoing commitment and persistence.

“続けています (tsuzuketeimasu)” means “am continuing,” showing your steady effort.

It’s polite and formal enough for professional settings.

Perfect for emphasizing your dedication during introductions or updates.

Consistency is key, and this phrase reflects that nicely.

14. Japanese: 日本語を勉強しておりますので、よろしくお願いします (Nihongo o benkyou shite orimasu node, yoroshiku onegaishimasu) – (Nee-hon-go oh ben-kyoh sh-teh oh-ree-mahss noh-deh, yor-oh-shee-koo oh-neh-gai-shee-mahss)

This phrase means “I am studying Japanese, so please be kind to me.”

It’s a humble and polite way to ask for understanding and support.

“よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu)” is a common polite phrase to request goodwill.

Use it when meeting new people or starting formal conversations.

It nicely combines your learning status with a polite request.

This phrase helps build rapport and positive connections.

15. Japanese: 日本語の勉強に励んでおります (Nihongo no benkyou ni hagemnde orimasu) – (Nee-hon-go no ben-kyoh nee hah-geh-mun-deh oh-ree-mahss)

This means “I am diligently studying Japanese.”

“励む (hagemu)” means “to strive or work hard,” showing your serious effort.

It’s a formal and respectful phrase to highlight your dedication.

Pronounce “hagemnde” carefully to sound natural.

Use this to impress teachers, mentors, or in professional settings.

It emphasizes your hardworking attitude in learning.

16. Japanese: 日本語の勉強に取り組んでいます (Nihongo no benkyou ni torikunde imasu) – (Nee-hon-go no ben-kyoh nee toh-ree-koon-deh ee-mahss)

This phrase means “I am tackling the study of Japanese.”

“取り組む (torikumu)” means “to tackle or work on,” conveying active effort.

It’s polite and formal, suitable for professional conversations.

Avoid using this casually, as it sounds quite serious.

Use it to express your commitment and focus during introductions or updates.

It shows that you’re serious and proactive about your learning.

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. Japanese: 日本語勉強してるよ (Nihongo benkyou shiteru yo) – (Nee-hon-go ben-kyoh sh-teh-roo yoh)

This is a casual, conversational phrase meaning “I’m studying Japanese.”

Dropping particles and using “してる (shiteru)” instead of “しています” makes it sound natural and relaxed.

Adding “よ (yo)” gives a friendly, confident tone.

Perfect for chatting with friends or informal situations.

Be careful not to use this phrase in formal settings.

It’s a great way to sound like a native speaker in casual conversations.

18. Japanese: 日本語やってる (Nihongo yatteru) – (Nee-hon-go yah-tteh-roo)

This phrase means “I’m doing Japanese (studying it).”

“やってる (yatteru)” is slangy and casual, often used among younger speakers.

It’s a quick, informal way to say you’re engaged with Japanese.

Avoid this phrase in professional or polite contexts.

Use it among friends or peers when you want to sound relaxed and natural.

It’s a fun phrase that captures casual enthusiasm.

19. Japanese: 日本語頑張ってる (Nihongo ganbatteru) – (Nee-hon-go gahn-bah-teh-roo)

This means “I’m working hard on Japanese.”

“頑張ってる (ganbatteru)” is the casual, contracted form of “頑張っています,” expressing effort.

It’s encouraging and shows your dedication in a friendly way.

Use it with friends or language partners to share your progress.

Be aware that the full form is more polite, so choose based on context.

This phrase is a great way to motivate yourself and others.

20. Japanese: 日本語勉強中だよ (Nihongo benkyou chuu da yo) – (Nee-hon-go ben-kyoh choo dah yoh)

This phrase means “I’m in the middle of studying Japanese.”

Adding “だよ (da yo)” gives it a casual, friendly tone.

It’s a nice way to update friends or casual acquaintances.

Don’t use it in formal situations, as it’s too informal.

Pair it with a smile to sound approachable and genuine.

This phrase keeps conversations light and easygoing.

21. Japanese: 日本語勉強してみてる (Nihongo benkyou shitemiteru) – (Nee-hon-go ben-kyoh sh-teh-mee-teh-roo)

This means “I’m trying out studying Japanese.”

“してみてる (shitemiteru)” implies you’re experimenting or giving it a try.

It’s casual and perfect for beginners who want to express their initial effort.

Avoid this in formal or serious situations.

Use it to share your first steps with friends or language buddies.

This phrase captures the spirit of playful learning.

22. Japanese: 日本語ちょっと勉強してる (Nihongo chotto benkyou shiteru) – (Nee-hon-go choht-toh ben-kyoh sh-teh-roo)

This phrase means “I’m studying Japanese a little.”

“ちょっと (chotto)” means “a little,” so it downplays your level modestly.

It’s casual and humble, useful for beginners.

Be careful to use it only when you really mean you’re at a beginner level.

It’s a friendly way to introduce yourself without pressure.

This phrase invites encouragement and understanding from others.

23. Japanese: 日本語勉強してんなう (Nihongo benkyou shiten nau) – (Nee-hon-go ben-kyoh sh-tehn now)

This super casual phrase means “I’m studying Japanese now,” using internet slang.

“してんなう (shiten nau)” combines “している” and “now” in a playful way.

It’s used mostly in texting or social media among friends.

Avoid this in spoken language or formal settings.

Great for sharing quick updates with peers.

Using slang like this connects you with younger native speakers.

24. Japanese: 日本語覚えてるよ (Nihongo oboeteru yo) – (Nee-hon-go oh-boh-eh-teh-roo yoh)

This phrase means “I’m remembering (learning) Japanese.”

“覚えてる (oboeteru)” is the casual form of “remembering” or “learning.”

It’s a relaxed way to say you’re retaining what you study.

Use it with friends to show progress in a fun way.

It’s informal, so keep it for casual conversation.

This phrase highlights your growing confidence with the language.

Concluding Thought

Learning to say “I am learning Japanese” in various ways is more than just words—it’s a bridge to connection and understanding.

Each phrase carries a bit of your story, your effort, and your excitement, making your journey more personal and rewarding.

Keep practicing, stay curious, and enjoy every step of your Japanese learning adventure. You’ve got this!