All Flashcards
What is the meaning of '尊敬 (sonkei)'?
Respect
What is the meaning of 'お辞儀 (ojigi)'?
Bowing
What is the meaning of '敬語 (keigo)'?
Honorific Language
What is the meaning of '和 (wa)'?
Harmony
What does 'desu' indicate in Japanese?
A polite form of speech, often used at the end of sentences.
What does 'masu' indicate in Japanese?
A polite form of speech, typically used for verbs.
What is the function of 'お (o-)' as a prefix?
It is an honorific prefix used to add politeness.
What is the function of 'ご (go-)' as a prefix?
It is an honorific prefix, often used with Sino-Japanese words, to add politeness.
What is the significance of bowing (お辞儀) in Japan?
It's a common greeting and a sign of respect. The depth of the bow indicates the level of respect.
Why is harmony (和) important in Japanese culture?
Maintaining group cohesion and avoiding conflict are highly valued.
Why is removing shoes before entering a home important?
It is a sign of respect and cleanliness.
Why is it important to wait to eat until everyone is served?
It shows consideration for the group and promotes harmony.
Why is eating/drinking on the street generally not allowed?
It is considered impolite and can be seen as lacking decorum.
Why is tipping not customary in Japan?
It's not expected and can be seen as rude because good service is already included.
Why is quiet behavior expected in public?
To avoid disturbing others and maintain a sense of harmony.
Describe the concept of 'group over individual' in Japanese society.
The needs of the group are often prioritized over individual desires to maintain harmony and cohesion.
Explain the role of consensus-building in Japanese decision-making.
Decisions are often made through discussion and collaboration rather than direct confrontation to ensure everyone is in agreement.