Translation guide
How to refer to the Japanese language in Japanese, depending on context and nuance.
Japanese language
Standard term for the Japanese language.
The learner wants to say 'Japanese language' in a neutral, standard way.
The most common and neutral word for the Japanese language. Used in almost all contexts.
I am studying Japanese.
Please speak in Japanese.
Means 'national language'. In Japan, this refers to Japanese as a school subject for native speakers, or the language of the country. Not used when referring to Japanese as a foreign language.
I like Japanese class (as a native subject).
A formal or literary term for the Japanese language, sometimes used in contrast to foreign languages. Rare in everyday speech.
To research Japanese-language documents.
The learner wants to specify Japanese learned by non-natives, or distinguish from native language education.
Still the standard term. Context makes it clear it's a foreign language.
To learn Japanese as a second language.
Explicitly 'Japanese as a foreign language'. Used in academic or pedagogical contexts.
The learner wants to compare Japanese with other languages, or talk about language choice.
日本語 (にほんご) is the general term for the Japanese language, used by both native speakers and learners. 国語 (こくご) specifically refers to Japanese as a school subject for native speakers in Japan, or the national language. When talking about learning Japanese as a foreign language, always use 日本語.
I am studying Japanese (as a foreign language).
To read a Japanese language textbook (for native students).
Teaching Japanese as a foreign language.
Research on the Japanese language.