試験に合格する

The structure is quite simple. First, say the name of the exam. Then add the particle ni. This particle is very important. It points to the goal you reached. Finally, add 合格する. For example, JLPTに合格する. It is a suru verb. This makes it very flexible for different tenses. You can say 合格しました to be polite. This is great for teachers or bosses. Or just use 合格した with your close friends. It sounds more natural in a text message.

Use this for any official milestone. Think about school entrance exams. Think about the JLPT or a difficult math test. Even your driver's license counts here. It is perfect for your professional resume. Use it when telling your parents the big news over dinner. Use it when updating your professional profile online. It is the standard way to announce success to the world. It sounds both proud and official.

Don't use this for physical movement. If you pass a store on the street, use toorisugiru. If you pass a ball in soccer, use pasu suru. Also, avoid it for passing a 'vibe check.' That is too slangy for this word. This phrase is for formal evaluations. It is for things that have a score. Don't use it if you just 'took' the test but don't know the result yet.

Japan really loves its exams. They even have a term: 'Examination Hell.' It sounds scary, doesn't it? Students study for many years to get into top schools. They often visit Shinto shrines to pray for luck. They buy special wooden plaques called ema. They write their exam goals on them. Have you seen people eating Kit Kats before tests? In Japanese, 'Kit Kat' sounds like 'Kitto Katsu.' This means 'surely win.' It is a delicious way to cheer on a friend. It is a very common gift during exam season.

Want to sound a bit more casual? Use the verb 受かる. It is shorter and feels more conversational. Friends often text 受かった！ after a big test. If you unfortunately fail, the word is 不合格. But let’s stay positive today! Focus on 合格. You might also hear パスする for casual quizzes. But 合格 remains the gold standard for any serious achievement.