Hello. Today, I will talk a little about the way to say "20 years old" that comes up in the first Chapter of Minna no Nihongo.
At 20 years old, it’s fine to say “にじゅっさい” (nijussai), but there’s also another way to say it: “はたち” (hatachi). Japanese counters can be challenging to remember, as they are not “いちさい” (ichisai) but rather “いっさい” (issai), and not “しちさい” (shichisai) but “ななさい” (nanasai). Occasionally, there are completely different expressions, like for 20 years old. It can be difficult, but let’s do your best to memorize them.
As for “はたち,” in Lesson 5, the date “20th” is also expressed as “はつか.” Perhaps ancient Japanese people used the character “は” to mean 20. Connecting these two ideas might make it a bit easier to remember. Keep up the good work!
Now, a little update regarding my course: I have launched a new Minna no Nihongo course. The content is exactly the same, but it can be taken with two people. It’s also possible with three or more, but in that case, the lesson fee will change a little bit.
Of course, just like the regular Minna no Nihongo course, there will be plenty of homework. If anyone would like to take it with a friend, please give it a try!
Alright, everyone, keep studying hard!