The Japanese Writing System
Japanese uses three scripts: Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana. Kanji are characters borrowed from Chinese, while Hiragana and Katakana are syllabaries. Hiragana is used for native words; Katakana for foreign words and onomatopoeia.
Politeness Levels in Speech
There are several levels of politeness in Japanese, from casual to extremely formal. Politeness is expressed through verb forms and vocabulary, and it's crucial to use the correct level depending on the social context.
Japanese Counting Challenge
Counting in Japanese is complex. Objects are counted with different counter words depending on their shape, size, or nature. For example, 'hon' is used for cylindrical objects, and 'mai' for flat ones.
Seasonal Words in Haiku
Haiku poetry often includes a 'kigo,' or a seasonal word, which encapsulates the essence of the season. These words evoke specific emotions and images related to the time of year in Japanese culture.
Multiple Readings for Kanji
Each Kanji character can have multiple readings, known as 'on'yomi' (Chinese origin) and 'kun'yomi' (Japanese origin). The context determines the correct pronunciation, a challenge for learners and native speakers alike.
Japanese Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication is as important as verbal in Japan. Bows can express respect, gratitude, apology, or greeting. The depth and duration of the bow indicate the level of respect.
Unique Japanese Vocabulary
Japanese has unique concepts often untranslatable into other languages. 'Wabi-sabi' appreciates beauty in imperfection, 'kintsugi' is the art of repairing pottery with gold, embracing flaws as part of the object's history.
Which scripts are syllabaries?
Kanji and Hiragana
Hiragana and Katakana
Kanji and Katakana
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