So I have N2 and am fine with everyday conversations. Recently I joined a training course for professional development meant for Japanese native speakers, and I was the only foreigner. I felt like it could be a good way to improve my Japanese while learning a new skill.
The course was pretty challenging for me, but I was able to get through it. I could understand between 60-100% of what was said at different times, and I was able to get my point across in academic/business-level discussions even though I often stumbled over words or used incorrect grammar. I had to use Google Translate to understand the content at times, but it was on Zoom so I could do that stealthily.
We each had to take turns leading a discussion as part of the training, and there was time for feedback. For my feedback, I was told 日本語はまだ上手じゃないですが、〇〇は良かったです。All three people in my group used some close variation of that phrase, so it wasn't just one person's opinion/phrasing.
Though opinions vary, it has been said that 日本語上手 means your Japanese is still baby level and is not really a compliment. I haven't heard that recently, but this is the first time to hear まだ上手じゃないけど.
What does the fact that I'm getting this kind of honest, straightforward feedback (instead of just being placated) say about my Japanese level? I'm hoping it means, "Hey, you're actually getting somewhere. Keep trying" and not "You suck, but at least you tried."
by bellow_whale