Can understand Japanese used in a wide variety of situations.

Comprehends structure and content of logically complex and abstract texts, such as newspaper editorials, criticism, etc. on a wide variety of topics; comprehends argument and subtleties of expression in a variety of more profound texts.

Understands structure and content, relationship of speakers, important points, and logical structure of argument in detail from a variety of coherent conversations, news broadcasts, and lectures conducted at natural speed.

Can understand Japanese in a wide variety of situations to some degree.

Comprehends a wide variety of texts with a clear argument, such as newspaper and magazine articles, expository prose, and simple criticism; follows the general idea of most texts, comprehends the meaning of most expressions.

Understands flow of conversation, relationship of speakers, and important ideas in coherent conversations on a wide variety of topics conducted at close to natural speed.

Can understand Japanese used in familiar situations.

Comprehends details of texts about common topics, understands basic information from newspaper headlines; understands main points of more demanding texts on ordinary topics.

Understands content and relationship of speakers in ordinary conversations conducted at close to natural speed.

Can understand Japanese used in familiar situations to some degree.

Comprehends details of texts about common topics, understands basic information from newspaper headlines; understands main points of more demanding texts on ordinary topics if glossed.

Understands most details and relationship of speakers in ordinary conversations conducted at close to natural speed.

Can understand basic Japanese.

Comprehends texts about familiar topics related to daily life written in basic vocabulary and kanji.

Understands most conversations on daily topics if spoken somewhat slowly.

Can understand basic Japanese to some degree.

Comprehends typical phrases, sentences, and paragraphs written in hiragana, katakana, and commonly used kanji.

Understands important information from short conversations about familiar situations (classroom, daily life, etc).