GUIDE深度 · Deep dive
Hiragana vs Katakana
Hiragana and katakana are two glyph sets for the same syllables. They sound the same but serve different purposes: hiragana for native words and grammar, katakana for loanwords, onomatopoeia and emphasis. Learning hiragana first is common.
Usage
Hiragana: particles, endings, native words.
Katakana: loanwords, brands, sound effects and emphasis.
Learning order
Start with hiragana by row (a/k/s/t/n/h/m/y/r/w/n).
Learn katakana in the same sound order to avoid mixing shapes.
FAQ
Can I learn only hiragana?
At first yes, but katakana is common in loanwords, so learn it eventually.
Do they sound the same?
Basically yes; the shapes differ.