JLPT N5 Speaking: Talk About Your Hobbies

The JLPT N5 exam includes a speaking section where you’ll need to talk about yourself. One common topic is your hobbies! This article will guide you through preparing for this part of the test, focusing on practical phrases and realistic conversation examples.

Understanding the Task

You’ll be given a simple prompt like “Ryou ri no shumi wo hanashite kudasai” (話して下さい – Please tell me about your hobby). You’ll then have around 1 minute to talk. Don’t worry about being perfect; the examiners are looking for you to demonstrate basic conversational skills and use learned vocabulary.

Essential Phrases & Vocabulary

Here’s a breakdown of phrases you’ll need, along with their romaji (pronunciation) and some notes:

• Watashi wa… o aiimasu. (私は…が好きです – I like…). Replace “…” with the hobby. Example: Watashi wa onsen wo aiimasu (私は温泉が好きです – I like hot springs).
• Shoyaku ni… ga suki desu. (習い事に… が好きです – I enjoy [activity] as a hobby). Example: Shoyaku ni kendo ga suki desu (習い事に剣道が好きです – I enjoy Kendo as a hobby)
• Asobi no mono wa… desu. (遊びのものは… です – My hobby is…). Example: Asobi no mono wa karaoke desu (遊びのものはカラオケです – My hobby is Karaoke).
• Nagara masu. (なります – I do/I’m into). Example: Jikan wo nagara, manga wo yomimasu (時間をなると、漫画を読みます – When I have time, I read manga).
• Mata… ni tsutaemasu. (また… に通います – I attend/participate in…). Example: Tai chi ni tsutaemasu (太極拳に通います – I participate in Tai Chi).

Example Dialogue #1

Examiner: Ryou ri no shumi wo hanashite kudasai.

You: Watashi wa onsen wo aiimasu. Onsen wa muyou de, yasashii kimochi ni narimasu. Nagara masu to, yokata wo yomimasu.

(Translation: I like hot springs. Hot springs are relaxing and I feel a peaceful feeling. When I have time, I read novels.)

Common Mistakes & Corrections

• Mistake: Watashi wa sushi ga suki desu. (私は寿司が好きです – I like sushi) (While correct, this is too specific for an N5 response. Stick to broader hobbies).
• Correction: Watashi wa shokuji no asobi no mono wo aiimasu. (食事の遊びのものを好きです – I like eating-related hobbies) – More natural and suitable for the level.
• Mistake: Using overly complicated grammar structures. Keep it simple!

Tips for Success

• Practice, Practice, Practice!: Say the phrases out loud repeatedly.
• Keep It Simple: Use short sentences and basic grammar.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes: Everyone makes mistakes when learning a language! The examiners are mostly assessing your ability to communicate.
• Focus on Fluency: Speak at a natural pace, even if it means pausing occasionally.

Remember, the goal is communication. Good luck with your JLPT N5 speaking test!