The JLPT N3 exam requires a strong vocabulary foundation, as both the reading and listening sections heavily test word recognition and comprehension. Mastering common words, Kanji, and useful phrases will significantly boost your reading speed, listening accuracy, and overall test performance.
In this guide, you’ll find:
✅ Essential N3 vocabulary categories with example words
✅ Effective memorization techniques
✅ Best resources to master JLPT N3 vocabulary
Let’s get started!
Building a solid vocabulary foundation is key to excelling in the JLPT N3 exam, as it helps improve both comprehension and communication skills.
To study efficiently, focus on vocabulary grouped by topic. This makes learning easier and helps you recognize words in context.
For a deeper dive into JLPT N3 preparation, check out our JLPT N3 Grammar Guide for essential tips and resources.
These verbs frequently appear in listening and reading questions.
Kanji | Hiragana | Meaning |
準備 | じゅんび | Preparation |
間に合う | まにあう | To be on time |
訪ねる | たずねる | To visit |
片付ける | かたづける | To tidy up |
申し込む | もうしこむ | To apply |
失敗する | しっぱいする | To fail |
慣れる | なれる | To get used to |
増える | ふえる | To increase |
減る | へる | To decrease |
遠慮する | えんりょする | To hesitate/refrain |
Key Tip: Practice these verbs in sentences so you remember their usage!
✔ 日本へ行く前に、ビザを申し込まなければならない。
(Before going to Japan, I must apply for a visa.)
These adjectives help express feelings, conditions, and descriptions.
Kanji | Hiragana | Meaning |
珍しい | めずらしい | Rare |
詳しい | くわしい | Detailed |
恥ずかしい | はずかしい | Embarrassing |
適当 | てきとう | Appropriate |
不安 | ふあん | Uneasy |
快適 | かいてき | Comfortable |
失礼 | しつれい | Rude |
確か | たしか | Certain, sure |
複雑 | ふくざつ | Complicated |
危険 | きけん | Dangerous |
✔ 適当な服を選んでください。
(Please choose appropriate clothing.)
✔ その説明はとても詳しかった。
(That explanation was very detailed.)
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These words frequently appear in conversations in the listening section.
Hiragana | Meaning |
なるほど | I see / That makes sense |
やっぱり | As expected |
せっかく | With great effort (but something prevented it) |
わざと | On purpose |
ついに | Finally |
たしかに | Certainly, indeed |
どうしても | No matter what |
うっかり | Carelessly, by mistake |
ぎりぎり | Just barely |
のんびり | Relaxed, taking it easy |
✔ やっぱり、このレストランは人気があるね!
(As expected, this restaurant is popular!)
✔ せっかく準備したのに、雨でピクニックが中止になった。
(I put in a lot of effort to prepare, but the picnic was canceled due to rain.)
JLPT N3 requires knowledge of 650-800 Kanji. Here are some common ones:
Kanji | Meaning | Example Word |
必 | Necessary | 必要 (ひつよう) – Necessity |
残 | Leftover | 残業 (ざんぎょう) – Overtime |
連 | Connect | 連絡 (れんらく) – Contact |
改 | Change | 改札 (かいさつ) – Ticket gate |
復 | Repeat | 復習 (ふくしゅう) – Review |
危 | Danger | 危険 (きけん) – Dangerous |
許 | Permit | 許可 (きょか) – Permission |
責 | Responsibility | 責任 (せきにん) – Responsibility |
✔ 日本語の勉強を復習しなければならない。
(I have to review my Japanese studies.)
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Mastering JLPT N3 vocabulary requires more than just passive memorization. The leap from N4 to N3 brings a noticeable increase in vocabulary complexity, kanji usage, and contextual understanding. If you want to retain and recall words fluently, you need to engage multiple senses—reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Below is a step-by-step approach along with the best resources to help you memorize JLPT N3 vocabulary effectively and efficiently.
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Flashcards are a time-tested method, especially when combined with Spaced Repetition Systems (SRS), which boost long-term memory by reviewing words just before you forget them.
✨ Bonus Tip: Instead of only Japanese-to-English, also practice English-to-Japanese recall. It trains active use.
While reading and listening are passive, writing engages your kinesthetic memory, especially for kanji-heavy words.
✍️ Writing helps solidify not just vocabulary, but also kanji recognition and recall in tests.
Memorizing isolated words doesn’t reflect how Japanese is used in real life. Contextual learning makes it easier to remember meaning, tone, and collocations.
Contextual learning helps you not only recognize a word, but also use it naturally.
Shadowing is one of the most powerful tools for vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar integration.
This helps move vocabulary from passive recognition to active speech.
Tool | Purpose | Why It’s Great |
Anki | Flashcards with SRS | Fully customizable; massive free JLPT decks |
WaniKani | Kanji & vocab | Gamified SRS learning with mnemonics |
Quizlet | Ready-made decks | Visual and audio cards for quick practice |
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Resource | Focus | What It Offers |
NHK Easy News | Reading + Listening | News in simple Japanese with furigana |
Satori Reader | Contextual Reading | JLPT-level graded content with clickable vocab |
JapanesePod101 | Listening | Audio lessons by level with cultural context |
Tadoku Readers | Extensive Reading | Free graded readers to improve contextual vocab |
Mastering JLPT N3 vocabulary requires structured learning, active practice, and exposure to real-world usage.
✔ Categorize words to study them effectively.
✔ Use flashcards & writing practice to reinforce memory.
✔ Read & listen to real Japanese materials for context.
✔ Use shadowing & JLPT practice tests to improve retention.
With consistent daily practice, you’ll build a strong word bank and increase your chances of passing JLPT N3! ????????
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You should learn around 3,750 words for the N3 level.
Use flashcards, spaced repetition, and practice in sentences.
Yes, recognizing 650-800 Kanji will help with reading comprehension.
3-6 months of consistent study is ideal.
You can still pass, but a strong vocabulary significantly improves reading and listening scores.
Start practicing today, and you'll be ready to ace your JLPT N3!