The use of Japanese “iyi” and Uzbek “yaxshi” in Beginner-Level Grammar Patterns

Abstract

This study investigates the usage of the Japanese adjective iyi
(“good”) and its Uzbek equivalent yaxshi in beginner level sentence patterns.
While iyi functions broadly in Japanese to express permission,
advice, preference, and convenience, yaxshi does not appear in expressions
of permission. Additionally, the adverbial form yoku in Japanese
indicates both degree and frequency, but yaxshi corresponds only to the
degree meaning. The research examines sentence patterns from the
Irodori textbook, verifies natural usage through consultation with native
Uzbek speakers and highlights potential sources of learner
misinterpretation, such as the Japanese phrase iyi desu. The findings
provide practical information for Japanese learners of Uzbek and vice
versa, clarifying which functional meanings can be directly expressed and
which require alternative expressions. This study contributes to
contrastive linguistics by providing detailed cross-linguistic insight into
basic vocabulary usage, informing efficient and practical teaching
strategies, and addressing an under-researched area in Japanese–
Uzbek language studies.