Posted by Passing the JLPT N1 requires more than memorizing difficult words—you need to understand how native speakers actually use them. Many advanced vocabulary items appear in conversations, workplaces, transportation announcements, and official documents.
In this lesson, you’ll learn five practical JLPT N1 vocabulary words with meanings, natural example sentences, and useful tips so you can confidently recognize and use them in everyday Japanese.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Why Learn Vocabulary in Context
- 甘える
- 欠ける
- 定める
- 平常運転
- 了承する
Vocabulary Summary
Common Mistakes
Study Tips
Practice Quiz
FAQ
Conclusion
Why Learning Vocabulary in Context Matters
Many learners make the mistake of memorizing long vocabulary lists without understanding real usage. As a result, they forget words quickly or hesitate to use them when speaking.
Studying vocabulary in context helps you:
- Remember words more effectively
- Improve JLPT reading comprehension
- Understand Japanese news and announcements
- Communicate more naturally
- Build confidence in advanced conversations
1. 甘える（あまえる）
Meaning
To rely on someone’s kindness or affection; to act spoiled or emotionally dependent.
Unlike simply “depending” on someone, 甘える expresses emotional reliance, often within close relationships.
Example
彼は大人になっても母親に甘えています。
Translation
He still depends on his mother even as an adult.
More Examples
子どもは安心すると親に甘えます。
Children rely on their parents when they feel safe.
Common Expressions
- 親に甘える
- 恋人に甘える
- 甘えすぎる (to rely too much)
JLPT Tip
This word frequently appears in reading passages discussing psychology, family relationships, and human behavior.
2. 欠ける（かける）
Meaning
To be chipped, broken, or missing a part.
Example
この機械は部品が欠けています。
This machine has missing parts.
More Examples
カップの縁が欠けています。
The rim of the cup is chipped.
Common Uses
- Machine parts
- Factory inspections
- Household items
- Manufacturing reports
JLPT Tip
Remember the difference:
- 壊れる = completely broken
- 欠ける = partially missing or chipped
3. 定める（さだめる）
Meaning
To establish, determine, or set officially.
Example
今年の目標を定めました。
I set my goals for this year.
More Examples
会社は新しいルールを定めました。
The company established new rules.
Common Uses
- Goals
- Rules
- Policies
- Standards
- Laws
JLPT Tip
Compared with 決める, 定める sounds more formal and deliberate, making it common in business and official writing.
4. 平常運転（へいじょううんてん）
Meaning
Normal operation.
You’ll often see this phrase on railway websites, train station displays, and transportation apps.
Example
電車は平常運転です。
The trains are operating normally.
More Examples
全路線は平常運転です。
All railway lines are operating normally.
Where You’ll See It
- JR stations
- Train apps
- News reports
- Railway announcements
JLPT Tip
Knowing transportation vocabulary is helpful for both the JLPT and daily life in Japan.
5. 了承する（りょうしょうする）
Meaning
To acknowledge, accept, or understand a request, condition, or situation.
Example
条件を了承しました。
I accepted the terms.
More Examples
ご了承くださいますようお願いいたします。
We kindly ask for your understanding.
Common Business Situations
- Contracts
- Customer service
- Business emails
- Company announcements
- Official notices
JLPT Tip
This is a highly formal word. In business Japanese, ご了承ください is one of the most common polite expressions.
Vocabulary Summary
| Japanese | Reading | Meaning |
| 甘える | あまえる | To depend emotionally; act spoiled |
| 欠ける | かける | To be chipped; be missing a part |
| 定める | さだめる | To establish; set |
| 平常運転 | へいじょううんてん | Normal operation |
| 了承する | りょうしょうする | To acknowledge; accept |
How to Remember These Words
Try this four-step study method:
- Read the example sentence aloud.
- Create your own sentence using the word.
- Review the vocabulary after one day, three days, and one week.
- Look for the word in Japanese news articles, dramas, or conversations.
This approach helps move vocabulary from short-term memory to long-term retention.
Quick Quiz
Which word means “normal operation”?
- 甘える
- 平常運転
- 欠ける
Answer: 平常運転
Which word is commonly used in business emails?
- 定める
- 了承する
- 甘える
Answer: 了承する
Which word describes something that has a missing part?
- 欠ける
- 甘える
- 定める
Answer: 欠ける
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these words included in the JLPT N1 exam?
Yes. These are advanced vocabulary items that may appear in JLPT N1 reading passages, listening sections, and formal contexts.
Are these expressions used by native speakers?
Absolutely. They are commonly used in workplaces, transportation announcements, official documents, and everyday conversations.
How many JLPT N1 words should I study each day?
A realistic goal is 5–10 new words daily, combined with regular review and sentence practice.
Is learning vocabulary enough to pass the JLPT N1?
No. Success at the N1 level also requires strong grammar, kanji, reading comprehension, and listening skills. Vocabulary is one essential part of a balanced study plan.
Practical Learning Tip
Instead of memorizing isolated words, focus on learning them through real situations. Reading news articles, watching Japanese programs, and using vocabulary in your own sentences will help you remember and apply these expressions naturally.
Link Suggestions
- My Japanese Online: My Japanese Online
- Official JLPT Website: https://www.jlpt.jp/
- MyJLPT Portal: https://www.myjlpt.jp/
Your Next Step
Choose one of today’s five words and write three original Japanese sentences using it. Regular writing practice will strengthen your vocabulary and prepare you for both the JLPT N1 exam and real-life communication.
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If you’re aiming to pass the JLPT N1 or improve your advanced Japanese for work and daily life, My Japanese Online offers structured online lessons taught by licensed native Japanese teachers. Our JLPT N1 and Business Japanese courses provide practical guidance, personalized feedback, and real-world language practice to help you achieve your goals.
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