JLPT N4 Speaking: What You MUST Do & What You MUST NOT Do

The JLPT N4 Speaking exam is about communicating effectively in everyday situations. It’s not a test of your perfect Japanese, but rather whether you can get your point across reasonably well. This guide will help you succeed by focusing on what to do and, crucially, what not to do.

What You MUST Do

1. Understand the Question & Plan Your Response: Before you start speaking, take a few seconds to fully understand what’s being asked. Don’t just jump in! Briefly think about your answer and how you’ll structure it.

Example (Question): “あなたの休日の過ごし方を教えてください。” (Tell me about how you spend your free time.)

What you should do: Quickly identify that they want a description of what you do on weekends.

• Start with a greeting and acknowledgement: “はい、わかりました。” (Okay, I understand.) or “はい、お願いします。” (Okay, please.)
• Give a brief overview: “週末は家でゆっくり過ごすことが多いです。” (I mostly spend my weekends at home relaxing.) – This sets the stage.
• Provide details: Follow up with specifics – what activities you do.

2. Use Appropriate Vocabulary & Phrases (N4 Level): You need to demonstrate a good grasp of N4-level vocabulary and common phrases. Don’t try to use overly complex or formal language; that’s a common mistake.

Example: Instead of saying “私は娯楽を楽しみます,” (I enjoy entertainment,) you should say, “映画を見たり、本を読んだりします。” (I watch movies or read books.) – This is more natural and within the N4 range.

• Focus on common verbs: 食べる (taberu – to eat), 見る (miru – to see/watch), 行く (iku – to go), 話す (hanasu – to speak)
• Use useful phrases: “〜ので” (~node – because of), “~について” (~ni tsuite – about ~).

3. Speak Clearly & at a Reasonable Pace: Don’t rush! Slow down and articulate your words. It’s better to speak slowly and be understood than quickly and incomprehensibly.

What You MUST NOT Do

1. Give Irrelevant Answers: The examiner is looking for answers related to the specific question. Don’t veer off topic, even if you think it’s relevant.

Example (Incorrect Response): If asked about your hobbies, immediately launching into a detailed explanation of Japanese history would be irrelevant and will likely result in negative marks.

Correction: Stick to the question! “趣味は、映画を見ることです。” (My hobby is watching movies.)

• Stay focused on the prompt.

2. Use Too Much Complex Grammar or Vocabulary: Resist the urge to try and use advanced grammar structures you aren’t completely confident with. Stick to simpler, more reliable constructions.

Example (Incorrect): “週末は、私は特に何か特別なことを行っているというわけではなく、一般的に人々が休んでいるような活動をしています。” (I don’t really do anything special on weekends; I just engage in activities that people usually do when they’re resting.) – This is overly complex for N4.

Correction: “週末は家でゆっくり過ごすことが多いです。” (I mostly spend my weekends at home relaxing.)

• Simplicity is key.

3. Stop Speaking Mid-Sentence: Try to complete your thoughts. Pauses are okay for thinking, but avoid abruptly stopping.

Important Note: Even if you make a mistake, don’t panic! The examiners are looking for progress and effort. Acknowledge the mistake briefly (“すみません、ちょっと言い間違えました。” – Sorry, I made a little mistake.) and continue speaking.

Final Thoughts

The N4 Speaking exam is about demonstrating your ability to communicate in Japanese at a basic level. Focus on understanding the questions, using appropriate language, and speaking clearly. Practice regularly and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they are part of the learning process!