Kanji: 100-300 Common Characters

Most Jukugo use the Onyomi reading. This is the Chinese-derived reading of the Kanji. Usually, two Kanji sit side-by-side. They create a brand new meaning together. For example, I (idea) plus Ken (view) becomes Iken (opinion). It is like a math equation for language. You add the meanings together. The result is a more specific concept. Sometimes the reading changes slightly. This happens to make the word easier to say. Think of it like a grammar traffic light. It tells you when to stop and when to go. Most of these words function as nouns. However, you can turn many into verbs. You just add suru at the end. This is a very powerful tool. It doubles your vocabulary instantly. You learn one noun and get a verb for free. It is the best deal in Japanese grammar!

1. 1Identify two Kanji that relate to your topic.
2. 2Use their Onyomi readings for the pronunciation.
3. 3Combine them to form a single noun.
4. 4If you want a verb, add suru after the noun.
5. 5Check if the word needs a specific particle like ni or wo.
6. 6Practice the pitch accent for the whole compound.
7. 7Look for common prefixes like Go or O for politeness.
8. 8Remember that some compounds use Kunyomi, but these are rarer.

Use these compounds in business meetings. Use them when writing essays or formal emails. They are perfect for explaining your Ketsui (determination). Use them when you need to be very precise. If you are at a job interview, use Jukugo. It shows you are an educated speaker. Even in daily news, these words are everywhere. They help you summarize long sentences into short words. Imagine you are at a train station. You see the word Chuushi (cancellation). It is faster than reading a long sentence about the train stopping. In professional settings, using these words is expected. It makes you sound reliable and smart. You can use them to discuss your Shumi (hobbies) in detail too. They are not just for work! Use them whenever you want to be clear.

Do not use them for very simple actions. If you are eating an apple, use taberu. Do not use a complex compound for 'eating'. It sounds like a robot is talking. Avoid them in very emotional, raw conversations with family. It might feel too cold or distant. Keep it natural with your close friends. Using too many compounds can make you sound stiff. It is like wearing a tuxedo to a beach party. Yes, you look great, but it is the wrong vibe. Also, avoid them if you are not sure of the reading. Mispronouncing a formal word is a bit embarrassing. It is better to use a simple word you know well. Balance is the key to sounding like a native.

Many people mix up similar-looking Kanji. Look closely at I (意) and Omo (思). They both relate to thinking. But they are used in different words. Another mistake is using Kunyomi in a compound. This sounds very strange to native ears. Yes, even native speakers mess this up sometimes! Just keep practicing your readings. Do not forget the suru when using them as verbs. Saying just Keikaku when you mean 'to plan' is confusing. It sounds like you are just shouting the word 'PLAN!'. Also, watch out for the particles. Some compounds take ni, others take wo. It is a common trap for B1 students. Don't worry, you will get the hang of it soon.

Compare Omou with Kansou. Omou is a simple verb for 'to think'. Kansou means 'impressions' or 'thoughts' on a specific topic. Use Omou for quick, personal feelings. Use Kansou after watching a movie or reading a book. One is a light breeze. The other is a deep ocean. Another example is Miru versus Kengaku. Miru is just 'to see'. Kengaku is a 'study visit' or 'inspection'. If you are just looking at a building, use miru. If you are there to learn, use kengaku. The compound word adds a layer of purpose. It tells the listener why you are doing the action. This nuance is what makes your Japanese sound advanced.