What was the outcome for the Japanese Navy by the end of the 1880's?

By the end of the 1880s, the Japanese Navy underwent significant modernization and transformation, largely driven by the Meiji Restoration, which aimed to strengthen Japan in the wake of Western imperialism. The Japanese invested heavily in their naval capabilities, learning from Western models and technologies, particularly from the British navy.

As a result, Japan managed to establish a navy that was not only modern but also comparable to many contemporary navies of the time. This equivalency allowed Japan to assert itself on the international stage and engage effectively with the naval powers of the world, including Europe. The advancements in ship design, naval tactics, and training helped solidify Japan's position, making it a formidable maritime power in the region.

The other options do not accurately reflect the developments of the Japanese Navy during this period. While it's true they were not as strong as the major Western navies like those of the United States or Britain, they were not the weakest in Asia and were certainly on path to becoming a dominant force.