Overview
This lecture explains the central role of respect and hierarchy in Japanese society, language, and customs, emphasizing key practices and the importance of politeness.
Social Hierarchy & Respect
- Japanese society values respect, reflected in language, manners, and customs.
- Status and hierarchy are important; relationships are rarely equal.
- Position is based on family role, organization, job, age, and experience.
- Workers respect managers, students respect teachers, families respect elders, teams respect coaches, and people respect the emperor.
Customs Reflecting Respect
- Bowing is a standard greeting and shows varying degrees of respect.
- Elevator attendants and department store staff bow to customers frequently.
- Japanese people give "meishi" (name cards) with both hands and a bow when meeting new people.
- Bowing may also occur over the phone.
- Omotenashi is the custom of hospitality and welcoming behavior towards locals and foreigners.
- People wait patiently in queues, never pushing or shoving.
Language of Respect: Keigo
- Japanese language includes "keigo" (polite language) with three types: sonkeigo (respectful), kenjougo (humble), and teineigo (polite).
- Correct use of keigo is essential for effective communication in Japan.
- Example: "Itadakimasu" is a polite way to say "to eat."
- Use sonkeigo to show respect, kenjougo for humility about yourself, and teineigo for general politeness.
Addressing Others
- Add "san" after a person's name for respect (similar to Mr./Ms.).
- Use "sama" for greater respect.
- Use "sensei" for teachers, professors, doctors, politicians, or martial arts teachers.
- "Kun" is sometimes used by males, usually for addressing other males.
Politeness in Language
- Japanese has casual and polite forms; use depends on relationship and context.
- Add "o" or "go" before nouns to make them polite.
- Polite verbs typically end with "masu."
- Add "gozaimasu" to expressions to increase politeness.
- Always be polite to others and humble about yourself.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Keigo — Japanese system of polite language with respectful, humble, and general polite forms.
- Meishi — Name card exchanged formally with a bow.
- Omotenashi — Japanese custom of hospitality and friendliness.
- San, Sama, Sensei, Kun — Honorifics used after names to indicate respect or status.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice using keigo forms in introductions and daily conversations.
- Observe and follow bowing etiquette and name card exchanges.
- Learn when to use "san," "sama," "sensei," and "kun" in addressing others.