Why Are Japanese Greetings So Unique?

KeeeeN-G

This article is
・Those who want to know the difference between Japan and other countries.
That’s what this article is about.

In my study of English, I have noticed two things.

First, Japanese greetings are more than just words; they are deeply connected to our culture, our relationships, and even the time of day.
It may seem strange to a foreigner, but it is an important gateway to the Japanese culture and way of thinking.

Second, Japan has many more types of greetings than other countries.
For example, “ohayou gozaimasu”, “konnichiha”, “good evening”, “good night”, “excuse me”, and so on.

The Japanese language has many greeting expressions. This is deeply connected to the Japanese culture and the way people relate to each other, and is quite distinctive compared to other countries.

In this article, I will leave specific greetings for later and introduce the richness of Japan’s greeting culture by comparing Japan with other countries, especially English-speaking countries.

Greetings Rooted in Lifestyle

・Japan:

“Itadaki masu” and ‘Gochisou sama” = expressions of gratitude before and after meals
“Itte kkimasu”, “Itte rasshai”, “Tadaima”, “Okaeri” = standard expressions in the home

・Europe and America (e.g., English-speaking countries):

“Let’s eat!” and “Enjoy your meal!” are used for meals, but they are not well-established and are not used on a daily basis.
Greetings at home are not so common.

Many Greetings with an Awareness of the Relationship with the Other Party

・Japan:

Many greetings that emphasize respect for the recipient and the relationship with the recipient, such as “Thank you for your help” and “Best regards.
Especially in business situations, there are many variations of greetings alone.

・Europe and the United States(e.g., English-speaking countries):

Mostly simple and casual expressions such as “Hi,” “Nice to meet you,” “Take care,” etc.
In business, “Best regards” and “Thank you for your time” are also used, but they are not so standardized.

Variations by Situation

・Japan:

There are many greetings for each activity “departure, return home, bedtime, meals” as well as for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

・Europe and the U.S.(e.g., English-speaking countries):

Greetings are mainly for “meeting” and “parting,” and there are few fixed greetings for actions.

Cultural Background

・Japan

“Proper greetings” are considered the basis of politeness and harmony in human relationships.
The culture that values harmony and the social structure that values hierarchical relationships have led to a variety of polite greetings.

・Europe and the U.S.(e.g., English-speaking countries):

“Naturalness” and “frankness” are valued, and words, actions, and attitudes tend to be more important than greetings.

Conclusion

Comparison Summary

It is interesting to see these differences.
I will start writing about specific greetings in the next article.

I will also write about things that even I, a Japanese, wonder about, my own experiences and those of my friends from overseas, so please read on!

Links to each part are provided.

Good morning, Hello, Good evening, Good night

P.S.

I’ve been blogging for a few weeks now.
It was hard work and took a lot of time.
But I am glad I started blogging.
I found a new aspect of Japan to blog about.
I was able to learn about the differences between Japan and other countries and the advantages of each.
I will continue to do my best!

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またね(Matane)!