Build vocabulary in context rather than memorizing lists. These topic areas cover the most useful vocabulary for daily communication and beginner conversations in JSL.

Core Vocabulary Topics

Greetings and introductions - konnichiwa equivalents, name introduction in JSL
Numbers and counting - Japanese number systems adapted in JSL
Family and relationships - kazoku vocabulary in JSL
Daily life and routine - school, work, eating, transportation in Japan
Health and medical settings - hospital, doctor, medicine, wellbeing
Japanese Deaf community - deaf (rousha), hearing (chosha), interpreter, JFD
Time expressions - days, months, seasons, common time phrases

Effective Vocabulary Learning Strategies

Learn signs in sentences - context supports memory and shows grammar in action
Practice receptive skills (watching) as much as expressive (signing) - most learners underinvest in reception
Find a language partner for regular practice - even brief exchanges with a native signer accelerate learning
Use spaced repetition - review at increasing intervals to build long-term memory
Watch JSL video content - vlogs, news, storytelling by native signers

Resources: The Japan Federation of the Deaf (jfd.or.jp) provides community information. Spread the Sign (spreadthesign.com) includes JSL vocabulary with video. YouTube search "Nihon Shuwa" (日本手話) finds Japanese Deaf community content and tutorials. Japanese Deaf YouTubers and vloggers post regular JSL content that provides authentic language input.

Japanese Sign Language (JSL)