一
ichi
One
The number one. Japanese also uses counters when counting objects.
ONE CLEAR STEP AT A TIME
One, two, three — beginner Japanese lesson
Build your first number vocabulary. Learn three expressions with pronunciation guides, usage notes and a recall check.
Learning goal: recognise three useful expressions, explain their meanings, and recall them in a short check.
Read each phrase and its context. The app provides device-based audio if a Japanese voice is installed. The full written lesson below works without JavaScript.
Practise this lesson →二
ni
Two
The number two. Notice the two horizontal strokes in the kanji.
三
san
Three
The number three. Three horizontal strokes make it easy to remember.
Try to recall the meaning
Read each Japanese phrase before opening its answer. You can also do the three-question interactive check in the lesson workspace.
一
One · The number one. Japanese also uses counters when counting objects.
二
Two · The number two. Notice the two horizontal strokes in the kanji.
三
Three · The number three. Three horizontal strokes make it easy to remember.
Your next clear step
Revisit the phrases once without the English meanings. Then continue with The things you love.
Beginner roadmap · All foundation lessons · Beyond the foundations