Japanese Language Proficiency Test Day

What Is Japanese Language Proficiency Test Day?

February 5th is "Nihongo Kentei no Hi" (Japanese Language Proficiency Test Day) in Japan, established by Tokyo Shoseki Co., Ltd., known for its textbooks and dictionaries, to raise awareness of the "Nihongo Kentei" (Japanese Language Proficiency Test), which the company sponsors. The test itself is administered by the non-profit Japanese Language Proficiency Test Committee.

A Simple Pun Reading "25" as "Nihongo"

The date's origin reflects a playful use of numbers and language distinctive to Japanese wordplay.

• The date's origin: a pun reading "2" as "ni" and "5" as "(hon)go," together forming "Nihongo" (Japanese language)
• What the Nihongo Kentei is: a certification exam that measures comprehensive Japanese language ability, covering honorifics, vocabulary, grammar, and kanji, with levels from Grade 1 to Grade 7
• Who takes it: people of all ages, from elementary school students to working adults, take the exam to check their own command of the Japanese language

A Command of Japanese That Goes Beyond "Speaking and Writing"

Even the Japanese we use every day without a second thought can leave us unsure when it comes to the correct use of honorifics or the precise meaning of a word. The Nihongo Kentei offers a chance to systematically revisit the depth and nuance of the language.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Try a past question or sample problem from the Nihongo Kentei
• Double-check whether the honorifics and phrasing you use daily are actually correct
• Look up the origin or etymology of a Japanese word you're curious about
• Quiz each other on words and language with your family or children

Even Familiar Words Are Worth a Second Look

Precisely because we use Japanese so naturally every day, taking a fresh look at it can lead to new discoveries. Let February 5th be a small opportunity to reflect on your own command of the Japanese language.