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We will share why the Japanese Language is Difficult? We explain in two parts(this week and next week) why it is said to be difficult and the key points to convey it correctly!

1. Japanese is a difficult language in the eyes of the world

For non-native speakers of Japanese, Japanese is considered one of the most difficult languages to learn.

This is because there are many things to learn about Japanese, including not only the meanings of words and hiragana, but also the ambiguous ways of expressing things in Japanese and the use of honorific expressions.

In particular, some people do not correctly understand the meaning of words and the use of honorifics, even if Japanese is their native language.

To learn Japanese correctly, it is important to know why Japanese is said to be difficult and to know the key to speaking in an easy-to-understand manner.


2. Four reasons why Japanese is said to be difficult

Here are four main reasons why Japanese is said to be difficult. Let's take a look at the reasons in advance.


2-1. Not communicating clearly

Compared to other cultures, Japanese culture is one in which it is considered good to “not clearly express what you want to say.

A-Un,” or ‘a-Un breathing,’ is emphasized in Japanese culture, in which people talk while reading the atmosphere of the situation.

This culture is also evident in the way language is used.

For example, they prefer ambiguous expressions and do not clearly exchange details or promises.

For example, when saying good-bye, they will say, “I hope to see you again when you have a chance,” and will be vague about the next time they plan to meet.

The contradiction of accurately conveying information while taking such cultural backgrounds into consideration can be extremely difficult.


2-2. Subject and object are easily omitted

Japanese is a language in which the subject and object are easily omitted.

In English, the order is clear: subject + predicate + object.

This makes it difficult for English speakers to understand “who” and “what” is being said in Japanese.

For example, “Are you going out today?” is also omitted in the sentence, “Are you going out today? the subject is omitted.

Japanese is a context-reading language. To understand the meaning, it is necessary to determine the subject and object by the flow of the conversation or document before and after.


2-3. Complex use of honorific expressions

The Japanese language is considered to be complex in its use of honorific expressions.

Honorifics are words that are spoken while showing respect to the other party, and are especially essential for domestic business.

In addition, Japanese honorifics include honorific, humble, and polite words, which must be used in different ways depending on the situation, the other party's position, and the subject of the action.

For example, the word for “come” can be used in a variety of ways, such as iraru (honorific), iru (humble), and kiru (polite).


2-4. Expressions and phrases are difficult to understand

The Japanese language has the following expressions and phrases that are difficult to understand.

Double negation: “There is no such thing as a negative,” etc., which makes it difficult to understand which is which in the end.

Passive expressions: Sometimes the object of the action is omitted, for example, “I (you) will be ~ done to me (you).

Words with multiple or opposite meanings: For example, the word “excuse me” has three meanings: apology, thanks, and request, and must be used according to the context.


3. Trouble may occur due to incorrect communication.

Japanese is a language used in a culture where ambiguous expressions are acceptable, which can cause problems in business.

In particular, misunderstandings are more likely to occur when communicating in non-face-to-face situations such as e-mail or chat rooms.

This is because in Japan, people seek the appropriate use of language by reading the atmosphere of the situation, and it is difficult to convey the correct meaning without face-to-face contact.

For example, if there is a gap in perception in a relationship with a customer, it may lead to a mistake and loss of trust.


4.[Specific example] Japanese language with difficult nuances

We mentioned above that Japanese is a language that is easily used with ambiguous nuance.

Here are two examples of nuanced Japanese that are often used in everyday situations and at work.


4-1. “It's okay” can mean exactly the opposite

It's okay” has contradictory meanings, such as ‘necessary’ and ‘unnecessary’ or ‘possible’ and ”impossible.

Even if you say “It's okay,” the meaning can change depending on the situation or circumstance.

Examples are as follows.

When asked if it is OK to put chopsticks on at a convenience store, nodding one's head and saying “It's OK” means “necessary.

When asked if it is OK to put a bag on at a convenience store, “No problem” with a shake of the head means unnecessary.

When asked if you can ask someone to do a job for you, nodding your head and saying “It's okay” means you can do it.

When asked if you would like to go out to dinner, shaking your head and saying “It's okay” means impossible.

Whenever possible, do not use the word “okay.” Instead, clearly state “yes” or “no,” such as “I don't need it” or “it is possible.


4-2. “I will take good care of it”｜There is a possibility of disappointing the other party.

The phrase “I will take good care of it” can be ambiguously taken as either an affirmation or a denial.

Essentially, it means that you will handle the situation appropriately according to the circumstances.

However, it is often used in business as an ambiguous expression to avoid conflict or trouble with the other party.

In addition to the nuance of “I will try to do something about it,” it can also include the nuance of “I will put a hold on it for the time being” in some cases.

In business, we need to choose words with the expectations of the other party in mind, rather than saying “I will do my best” on the spur of the moment.


5. Four points to keep in mind to convey the message correctly

In the next article, we will introduce four points to keep in mind in order to correctly convey your meaning to others in Japanese.

Please look forward to it!


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