24 Essential Japanese Phrases to Describe Your Language Level

Learning to talk about your language level in Japanese can be a game-changer. It helps you connect, be understood, and show your progress confidently.

Whether you’re a newbie or brushing up for a trip, these phrases will boost your confidence. They’re practical, easy to remember, and perfect for real conversations.

We’ll cover casual, polite, and native-like expressions so you can switch things up depending on the setting. Having a solid way to describe your skills is a handy tool in any language journey.

Plus, sharing your level clearly can open doors to new friendships and learning opportunities. It’s about making your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Ready to sound like a pro, no matter your stage? Let’s dive into 24 essential Japanese phrases that describe your language level perfectly.

Keep these handy and watch how your conversations bloom!

Getting Started: Basics of Describing Language Levels

Before diving into phrases, it’s good to understand how Japanese speakers talk about language skills.

Japanese uses simple adjectives and expressions to convey ability, from “beginner” to “fluent.” Knowing these basics sets you up for success when sharing your level.

It’s straightforward once you get the hang of it.

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

These phrases are your foundation to more natural conversations and clear self-expression.

Master these, and you’ll feel ready to level up your Japanese chats in no time.

Part 1: Casual Suggestions

1. はじめたばかりです (Hajimeta bakari desu) – I just started

This phrase is perfect for letting people know you’re a fresh learner.

“はじめた (hajimeta)” means “started,” and “ばかり (bakari)” means “just.” Adding “です (desu)” makes it polite and clear. It’s a simple way to set expectations.

Using this phrase helps others understand your level and be patient.

It’s honest and straightforward.

You might also hear “勉強を始めたばかりです (Benkyou o hajimeta bakari desu)” which adds “studying” for clarity.

Don’t be shy to use this; it’s a great conversation starter!

2. まだ上手じゃないです (Mada jouzu janai desu) – I’m not good yet

This phrase admits you’re still learning but trying your best.

“まだ (mada)” means “still,” “上手 (jouzu)” means “skillful/good,” and “じゃないです (janai desu)” is the negative polite form. It’s a humble way to express you’re improving.

It invites encouragement from listeners.

Perfect for casual chats when you want to be honest without sounding discouraging.

Avoid saying “下手 (heta)” which means “bad” too bluntly; this phrase keeps it positive.

Try it next time you feel unsure—it sets a friendly tone.

3. 少し話せます (Sukoshi hanasemasu) – I can speak a little

A great way to say you have basic speaking skills.

“少し (sukoshi)” means “a little,” and “話せます (hanasemasu)” is the polite potential form of “to speak.” It’s simple and clear.

This phrase shows confidence in your skills without exaggerating.

It’s encouraging for listeners to engage more.

You can pair it with “読むことができます (yomu koto ga dekimasu)” to say “I can read.”

Use this to open up conversations and practice more speaking.

4. 日本語を勉強しています (Nihongo o benkyou shiteimasu) – I am studying Japanese

Let people know you’re actively learning Japanese.

“日本語 (Nihongo)” means “Japanese language,” “を (o)” is the object particle, and “勉強しています (benkyou shiteimasu)” means “am studying.”

This phrase sounds proactive and positive.

It shows commitment and invites helpful responses.

Avoid mixing up verb forms; “勉強します (benkyou shimasu)” means “I will study,” which is future tense.

Great for making language buddies or finding study groups.

5. まだ初心者です (Mada shoshinsha desu) – I’m still a beginner

This phrase clearly states your beginner status.

“初心者 (shoshinsha)” means “beginner,” and “まだ (mada)” adds “still.” Adding “です (desu)” keeps it polite.

It’s simple and helps set realistic expectations.

Perfect for casual and semi-formal conversations.

You can expand with “日本語の初心者です (Nihongo no shoshinsha desu)” to specify the language.

Use it confidently to express your current stage.

6. 中級者です (Chuukyuu sha desu) – I’m intermediate

Use this phrase when you feel comfortable but not advanced.

“中級者 (chuukyuu sha)” means “intermediate level person,” and “です (desu)” is polite. It’s a neat way to describe your progress.

It signals you can handle everyday conversations with some complexity.

Great for social settings where people ask about your skills.

It pairs well with “会話ができます (kaiwa ga dekimasu)” meaning “can have conversations.”

This phrase shows pride in your hard work and motivates further learning.

7. まだまだです (Mada mada desu) – I still have a long way to go

This humble phrase expresses you’re far from fluent but motivated.

“まだまだ (mada mada)” means “still a long way to go,” and “です (desu)” makes it polite. It’s a common expression among learners and natives.

It shows honesty and a positive attitude.

Perfect for casual conversations when asked about your progress.

Beware not to use it too often, as it might sound self-deprecating if overused.

Try it to share your learning spirit and invite support.

8. ほとんど話せます (Hotondo hanasemasu) – I can almost speak fluently

Say this when you’re near fluency but not quite there.

“ほとんど (hotondo)” means “almost,” and “話せます (hanasemasu)” is “can speak.” It’s a humble but proud phrase.

This tells listeners you’re comfortable but still learning nuances.

Great for casual or semi-formal conversations.

It can lead naturally into discussing specific topics you’re working on.

Use it to celebrate your progress while staying grounded.

Part 2: Polite & Formal Suggestions

9. 日本語が少しできます (Nihongo ga sukoshi dekimasu) – I can speak a little Japanese

This polite phrase fits formal introductions and business contexts.

“日本語 (Nihongo)” is Japanese language, “が (ga)” marks the subject, “少し (sukoshi)” means a little, and “できます (dekimasu)” means “can do.”

It’s concise and respectful.

Avoid overly casual phrases in formal settings to maintain professionalism.

Example: “日本語が少しできますが、まだ勉強中です (Nihongo ga sukoshi dekimasu ga, mada benkyou chuu desu)” meaning “I can speak a little Japanese, but I’m still studying.”

This phrase balances humility and confidence well.

10. 日本語を勉強中です (Nihongo o benkyouchuu desu) – I’m currently studying Japanese

Use this formal phrase to show ongoing commitment.

“勉強中 (benkyouchuu)” means “in the middle of studying,” and adding “です (desu)” keeps it polite. It’s perfect for interviews or formal chats.

This phrase makes your dedication clear.

Don’t confuse it with past tense forms.

Example: “今、日本語を勉強中です (Ima, Nihongo o benkyouchuu desu)” means “I’m currently studying Japanese.”

It’s a respectful way to explain your status.

11. 日本語がまだ不自由です (Nihongo ga mada fujiyuu desu) – My Japanese is still not fluent

This phrase politely admits limited ability.

“不自由 (fujiyuu)” means “not free” or “imperfect,” commonly used to express lack of fluency.

It’s humble and respectful in professional or formal situations.

Avoid using harsh negatives like “下手 (heta)” in polite settings.

Example: “日本語がまだ不自由ですが、一生懸命勉強しています (Nihongo ga mada fujiyuu desu ga, isshoukenmei benkyou shiteimasu)” means “My Japanese is still not fluent, but I’m studying hard.”

Shows your earnest attitude and respect.

12. 日常会話はできます (Nichijou kaiwa wa dekimasu) – I can handle everyday conversation

This phrase is great to explain practical speaking ability.

“日常会話 (nichijou kaiwa)” means “daily conversation,” and “できます (dekimasu)” means “can do.”

It’s formal and straightforward.

Don’t overstate your skills if you’re still shaky on complex topics.

Example: “日常会話はできますが、ビジネスはまだ難しいです (Nichijou kaiwa wa dekimasu ga, bijinesu wa mada muzukashii desu)” means “I can handle everyday conversation, but business is still difficult.”

Helpful for setting expectations politely.

13. 日本語の読み書きができます (Nihongo no yomikaki ga dekimasu) – I can read and write Japanese

This phrase highlights literacy skills.

“読み書き (yomikaki)” means “reading and writing,” combined with “できます (dekimasu)” meaning “can do.”

It’s useful when clarifying abilities beyond speaking.

Avoid confusion with just speaking skills.

Example: “日本語の読み書きができますが、話すのはまだ苦手です (Nihongo no yomikaki ga dekimasu ga, hanasu no wa mada nigate desu)” means “I can read and write Japanese, but speaking is still difficult.”

Good for academic or work-related conversations.

14. 上級者です (Joukyuu sha desu) – I am advanced

Use this phrase to describe a high skill level.

“上級者 (joukyuu sha)” means “advanced level person,” with polite “です (desu).”

It shows you can handle complex language tasks.

Don’t use this unless you’re truly confident; overusing it can backfire.

Example: “日本語は上級者ですので、通訳の仕事もできます (Nihongo wa joukyuu sha desu node, tsuuyaku no shigoto mo dekimasu)” means “I’m advanced in Japanese, so I can also do interpreting work.”

This phrase expresses pride and professionalism.

15. 日本語が堪能です (Nihongo ga tannou desu) – I’m fluent in Japanese

“堪能 (tannou)” is a formal word for fluent or proficient.

This phrase is perfect for resumes or formal introductions.

It clearly states fluent ability with respect.

Avoid mixing it in casual chats—it sounds very formal.

Example: “日本語が堪能ですので、翻訳の仕事をしています (Nihongo ga tannou desu node, hon’yaku no shigoto o shiteimasu)” means “I’m fluent in Japanese, so I work as a translator.”

Use this phrase to make a strong impression professionally.

16. 日本語はネイティブレベルです (Nihongo wa neitibu reberu desu) – My Japanese is native-level

This phrase is for near-native or native speakers.

“ネイティブレベル (neitibu reberu)” means “native level.” Adding “です (desu)” keeps it polite.

It’s a strong claim and should be used carefully.

Don’t say this unless your skills truly match native fluency.

Example: “日本語はネイティブレベルですので、どんな会話も問題ありません (Nihongo wa neitibu reberu desu node, donna kaiwa mo mondai arimasen)” means “My Japanese is native-level, so I have no problem with any conversation.”

Use this phrase to highlight exceptional ability.

Part 3: Very Casual / Native-like Expressions

17. そんなに上手じゃないけど (Sonnani jouzu janai kedo) – I’m not that good, but…

This phrase is a humble and natural way to downplay your skills.

“そんなに (sonnani)” means “that much,” “上手じゃない (jouzu janai)” means “not good,” and “けど (kedo)” means “but.”

It sets a friendly, casual tone.

Great for informal conversations with friends.

You can follow it up with something positive like “もっと勉強したい (motto benkyou shitai)” meaning “I want to study more.”

Use this to sound approachable and genuine.

18. まあまあ話せるよ (Maa maa hanaseru yo) – I can speak okay

This phrase casually expresses moderate ability.

“まあまあ (maa maa)” means “so-so” or “okay,” and “話せる (hanaseru)” means “can speak.” Adding “よ (yo)” softens and adds friendliness.

It’s perfect for friendly chats.

Avoid using it in serious settings because it sounds informal.

Example: “日本語はまあまあ話せるよ。でも、まだ勉強中 (Nihongo wa maa maa hanaseru yo. Demo, mada benkyou chuu)” means “I can speak Japanese okay, but I’m still studying.”

Use this to keep things light and real.

19. ペラペラ話せます (Perapera hanasemasu) – I can speak fluently

“ペラペラ (perapera)” is a casual onomatopoeia for fluent speech.

Pairing it with “話せます (hanasemasu)” means “can speak fluently.”

It’s informal but widely understood.

Good for casual bragging or showing pride.

Be mindful of tone; it might sound boastful if not used carefully.

Use it to express confidence among friends or peers.

20. まだまだ勉強しなきゃ (Mada mada benkyou shinakya) – I still gotta study a lot

This phrase is casual and shows motivation.

“まだまだ (mada mada)” means “still a long way to go,” and “勉強しなきゃ (benkyou shinakya)” is a contraction of “have to study.”

It sounds natural among native speakers.

Avoid using it in very formal contexts.

Example: “日本語はまだまだ勉強しなきゃ。でも楽しいよ (Nihongo wa mada mada benkyou shinakya. Demo tanoshii yo)” means “I still gotta study a lot of Japanese, but it’s fun.”

Use this phrase to show your dedication with a casual vibe.

21. そんなに難しくないよ (Sonnani muzukashikunai yo) – It’s not that hard

This is a casual way to express confidence or encourage others.

“そんなに (sonnani)” means “that much,” “難しくない (muzukashikunai)” means “not difficult,” and “よ (yo)” adds friendliness.

Great for reassuring fellow learners.

Don’t use it to downplay challenges in formal discussions.

Example: “日本語はそんなに難しくないよ。一緒に頑張ろう (Nihongo wa sonnani muzukashikunai yo. Issho ni ganbarou)” means “Japanese isn’t that hard. Let’s do our best together.”

Use it to keep motivation high.

22. まあ、何とかなるよ (Maa, nantoka naru yo) – Well, it’ll work out somehow

This phrase shows a laid-back attitude toward learning challenges.

“まあ (maa)” means “well,” “何とかなる (nantoka naru)” means “it’ll work out somehow,” and “よ (yo)” adds warmth.

It’s perfect for casual, positive vibes.

Avoid using it to avoid responsibility.

Example: “まだ上手じゃないけど、まあ、何とかなるよ (Mada jouzu janai kedo, maa, nantoka naru yo)” means “I’m not good yet, but well, it’ll work out somehow.”

Use it to encourage yourself and others.

23. ちょっとだけ話せる (Chotto dake hanaseru) – I can speak just a little

This phrase is casual and humble.

“ちょっとだけ (chotto dake)” means “just a little,” and “話せる (hanaseru)” means “can speak.”

It’s perfect for low-confidence moments.

Don’t use it if you want to sound more confident.

Example: “日本語はちょっとだけ話せるけど、もっと練習したい (Nihongo wa chotto dake hanaseru kedo, motto renshuu shitai)” means “I can speak a little Japanese, but I want to practice more.”

Use it when you want to be honest but positive.

24. 日本語は大好きだけど、まだまだだね (Nihongo wa daisuki dakedo, mada mada da ne) – I love Japanese, but I still have a long way to go

This phrase is warm and relatable.

“大好き (daisuki)” means “love,” “だけど (dakedo)” means “but,” and “まだまだだね (mada mada da ne)” means “still a long way to go.”

It shows passion and humility together.

Perfect for ending conversations on a positive note.

Try it to express your love for the language while keeping it real.

This phrase invites encouragement and shared enthusiasm.

Concluding Thought

Describing your language level in Japanese is more than just words—it’s about sharing your journey and connecting with others.

These 24 phrases give you tools to express yourself clearly, honestly, and warmly, no matter your stage.

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