If you're looking for a clear and complete grammar list for the N4 exam, this guide from Migii is a great place to start. We’ve put together a concise JLPT N4 grammar list along with 5 highly recommended study resources to help you build a solid foundation and prepare more effectively.
JLPT N4 grammar list
What is JLPT N4 and what do you need to achieve?
JLPT N4 is the fourth level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, designed for learners at the upper beginner stage. At this level, you are expected to understand common daily conversations, read simple texts, and use a range of basic grammar structures with ease.
Learners preparing for the JLPT N4 are generally advised to master around 300 kanji characters, 1.500 vocabulary words, and roughly 100 essential grammar points. Studying with a clear and structured JLPT N4 grammar list can help you stay on track and focus on the most important content.
Unlike the N5 level, N4 introduces grammar patterns that express reasons, comparisons, possibilities, and sequences of actions. Grammar points like 「〜たほうがいい」or「〜ながら」are commonly seen in both the exam and everyday conversations.
Learning grammar is not just about passing the test. It also improves your ability to understand and respond in real-life situations. That’s why it’s helpful to use study materials that cover JLPT level 4 grammar with clear explanations and real-life usage.
JLPT level 4 grammar
Popular JLPT N4 Grammar List
If you're preparing for the JLPT N4, mastering the key grammar patterns is absolutely essential. While the N5 level lays a basic foundation, N4 marks a turning point where you begin to understand more complex sentence structures and get a real feel for how Japanese is used in daily life.
Below is a selection from the JLPT N4 grammar list that you should prioritize. These patterns not only appear frequently on the exam but are also incredibly useful in everyday conversations.
|
Grammar Pattern |
Usage or Meaning |
Example Sentence |
|
～そうです |
I heard that / It looks like |
雨が降るそうです。 (I heard it's going to rain.) |
|
～ながら |
While doing two actions at once |
音楽を聞きながら勉強します。 (I study while listening to music.) |
|
～ために |
In order to / Because of |
健康のために走ります。 (I run for my health.) |
|
～たほうがいい |
You should… |
薬を飲んだほうがいいです。 (You should take some medicine.) |
|
～てしまう |
To do something completely / accidentally |
財布を忘れてしまいました。 (I accidentally forgot my wallet.) |
|
～ないでください |
Please don’t… |
ここで写真を撮らないでください。 (Please don’t take photos here.) |
|
～なければならない |
Must / Have to |
毎日勉強しなければなりません。 (I have to study every day.) |
|
～ことができる |
Can do something |
日本語を話すことができます。 (I can speak Japanese.) |
|
～とき |
When… |
暇なとき、映画を見ます。 (When I have free time, I watch movies.) |
|
～たり～たりする |
Listing actions or examples |
食べたり飲んだりします。 (I eat and drink, among other things.) |
|
～んです |
Used to explain, emphasize, or ask |
頭が痛いんです。 (The thing is, I have a headache.) |
|
～から / ～ので |
Because / Since |
雨が降ったから、行きません。 (I’m not going because it rained.) |
In addition, there are many more expressions in the JLPT N4 grammar patterns with examples category that you should study by topic, such as time, cause, condition, commands, prohibitions, ability and questions. Each grammar point on this list should not only be understood clearly but also practiced through sentence creation and recognition in real-life situations.
A full JLPT N4 grammar list usually contains between 80 and 120 grammar points. You can easily find JLPT N4 grammar list PDF files online, but it is important to choose reliable sources to avoid learning incorrect or incomplete information. Textbooks like Minna no Nihongo II, Chokuzen Taisaku N4, and specialized Japanese learning apps often include curated Japanese JLPT N4 grammar lists with examples and exercises.
JLPT N4 grammar patterns with examples
To build a solid foundation in grammar and learn more effectively, you can start with the well-structured N4 Level Theory course developed by Migii.
Top 5 Recommended Books to Study JLPT N4 Grammar
Below are 5 widely recommended books that are especially helpful for both self-study and classroom learning.
1. Minna no Nihongo II (Vietnamese Translation)
Minna no Nihongo II is a well-structured textbook designed for lower-intermediate learners. The Vietnamese translation version is particularly helpful for Vietnamese speakers, allowing them to understand the lessons more clearly without spending too much time translating.
Each lesson introduces key JLPT N4 grammar patterns with examples, followed by clear explanations and practical exercises. The content is organized in a logical progression, making it easier to build a solid grammar foundation.
If you're new to JLPT Level 4 grammar, studying through this textbook from start to finish is a great way to grasp the fundamentals without getting overwhelmed.
Link download here:
2. Kanji Master N4
While primarily a Kanji learning book, Kanji Master N4 also incorporates grammar and real-life expressions. The book presents Kanji alongside vocabulary and grammar patterns commonly used in JLPT exams, helping learners understand how these elements work together.
This integrated approach is especially helpful if you're finding it difficult to memorize grammar structures in isolation. The real-world examples make it easier to absorb and recall Japanese JLPT N4 grammar naturally.
Link download here:
Kanji Master N4
3. Basic Kanji Book Vol. 1 & Vol. 2
These volumes are focused on Kanji but also provide valuable grammar exposure through example sentences and contextual practice. Each chapter includes vocabulary, short passages, and practice exercises, reinforcing both writing skills and sentence construction.
If you're already comfortable with the N5 level and looking to improve your output skills, these books are great for practicing sentence formation using JLPT level 4 grammar. They also work well as a supplement to more grammar-focused resources.
Link download Vol. 1 here:
Link download Vol. 2 here:
4. Chokuzen Taisaku N4
Designed for last-minute test preparation, Chokuzen Taisaku N4 offers a mock-test-style format that closely mirrors the real JLPT exam structure. It covers all test sections, including grammar, and offers brief but clear explanations that are easy to review.
This book is ideal if you’ve already studied most JLPT N4 grammar patterns with examples and are looking to reinforce your knowledge through realistic test practice. It's also a great way to identify weak areas and improve time management during the exam.
Link download here:
Chokuzen Taisaku N4
5. Hajimete no Nihongo Tango 1500 N4
Although this is a vocabulary book, it’s incredibly useful for grammar learners as well. Each new word is introduced within a sentence that uses a relevant grammar point, often accompanied by an illustration to aid memory. This allows learners to pick up grammar more intuitively through everyday context.
If you prefer learning grammar through immersion rather than memorizing lists from JLPT N4 grammar, this book will suit your style perfectly. It's a great option for visual learners or those who want to make grammar study feel less mechanical.
Link download here:
After completing the theory section, continue practicing with the Practice JLPT N4 section on the Migii platform. This is a crucial step to turn your knowledge into strong test-taking skills.
Conclusion
We hope that this JLPT N4 grammar list and the five recommended study materials give you a clearer and more effective learning path. With the support of high-quality resources and online platforms like Migii JLPT, you can confidently master N4 grammar and walk into the exam fully prepared.
