How to say "learn" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 学ぶまなぶgodan verb, transitive verbThe broadest word for 'learn', covering study and the acquisition of knowledge or skill. The natural choice for academic contexts, as in learning a subject at school or university.
- 習うならうgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'learn' when a teacher is involved: taking lessons in something or being taught by an instructor. Typical of lessons in arts, crafts or other skills studied under a teacher.
- 教わるおそわるgodan verb, transitive verbAlso means learning from a teacher, but views the matter from the receiving side: you are taught something. Close to 習う, and often the word when saying who taught you what you know.
- 知るしるgodan verb, transitive verbFor 'learn' only in the sense of coming to know or finding out about something, such as learning of a fact or an event. It does not mean studying a subject or acquiring a skill.
- 身につけるみにつけるexpression, ichidan verbEmphasizes making knowledge or a skill truly your own — acquiring it so you can actually use it. Fits 'learn' when the point is mastery rather than the process of being taught or studying.
Use 「学ぶ」 for learning or studying in general, 「習う」 and 「教わる」 for being taught by someone, 「身につける」 for making knowledge or a skill your own, and 「知る」 only for coming to know or finding out about something.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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