Just about "how much" japanese should I know

[Live91]

I'm going there for two weeks for a "school stage"? We have to pass some sort of test in a company [anywhere in the world! XD!They really let us free you know?] and I was wondering about how much japanese should I know to get around?
I have until june to learn that "amount".Anyone can help?

 

[Buntaro]

Live,

I used to live in Japan, and I used to go around "saving" lost gaijin who were walking around Tokyo, trying to use only English to get around. (I even "saved" some lost gaijin who were inside Tokyo Station one time!)

The bottom line is: You will need whatever phrases you will need. And remember: You may be able to ask the question, but you may not be able to understand the answer.)

 

[nice gaijin]

you will need more than you will know, but that's the case no matter how long you study...

 

[Glenn]

Yeah, I'm feeling you on that one.

By the way, to the OP, do you have a phrasebook or a "dirty guide" of some sort? I think those types of books are designed to get you around somewhat smoothly, but you might also consider getting a basic grammar book to help you out. You have eight or so months, so you should be able to function well enough to find out where bathrooms are and how much stuff costs if you work at it. Good luck!

 

[nice gaijin]

speaking of "dirty guides," get "making out in Japanese," and commit it to heart. You will surprise everyone with all the Japanese you speak!

 

[Glenn]

Hahaha, yeah, but I don't think you want to surprise them like that!

 

[leonmarino]

speaking of "dirty guides," get "making out in Japanese," and commit it to heart. You will surprise everyone with all the Japanese you speak!

Hahaha my lil' bro bought that one when were there last year.. Did you know there is a follow-up on it? It is interesting to read to say the least.. Like, how many people wants to know how to say "I think it is too early to get married" in a foreign language!?

 

[Mike Cash]

Live,
I used to live in Japan, and I used to go around "saving" lost gaijin who were walking around Tokyo, trying to use only English to get around. (I even "saved" some lost gaijin who were inside Tokyo Station one time!)

I used to try to be helpful like that. I found out it is one of the fastest ways in the world to get resented.

 

[nice gaijin]

I used to try to be helpful like that. I found out it is one of the fastest ways in the world to get resented.

Do you mean resented by people you thought needed help but didn't? In my limited imagination I couldn't think of another situation that would breed resentment, unless you were spreading misinformation.

 

[nhk9]

Before you know it, you learn more than you will need to know. Learning Japanese is addictive, so unless you have the time to do it, might as well just go by with Engrish. "CD wanto getto" = I want to buy this CD... etc.

 

[Mike Cash]

speaking of "dirty guides," get "making out in Japanese," and commit it to heart. You will appall everyone with all the Japanese you speak!

There....that's better.

Do you mean resented by people you thought needed help but didn't? In my limited imagination I couldn't think of another situation that would breed resentment, unless you were spreading misinformation.

No, I mean resented by people who quite obviously were in need of help.

These days, I just keep right on going.

 

[nice gaijin]

Heh, my sarcasm was betrayed by the smiley at the end of my sentence, but I forget that you have them turned off, Mike.

I've been approached a few times for help by lost tourists, and gladly offered them my assistance, but I let them come to me if they really need help.

 

[Live91]

Well, it seems like we had to cancel the trip because I'm moving to South Africa next year. woho the U.N doesn't stop! But I'm glad, I get to travel again, finally. Who knows, they might drop us in Japan soon !