Note on Created Terms: "Keigo Barrier" and "Keigo Gradation"
I would like to clarify that the terms "Keigo Barrier" and "Keigo Gradation" are original concepts I have devised to illustrate specific aspects of Japanese language and social interactions. These terms are not standard in Japanese language education but are my personal conceptualization to explain the nuanced use of formal language in various social settings.
Keigo Barrier:
This term refers to the intentional use of formal Japanese language (Keigo) to maintain a certain degree of social distance or respect within a relationship. It's a strategic approach to keep the relationship comfortably respectful, without becoming too personal or informal.
Keigo Gradation:
This concept describes the gradual transition from formal to more casual language within a conversation. It serves as a technique for navigating social closeness, allowing one to cautiously move towards a deeper connection while still respecting the other person's boundaries.
These terms were developed to assist learners of Japanese in understanding the intricate dynamics of respect, familiarity, and social hierarchy that are integral to Japanese communication.
単語 (Vocabulary)
関係性 - Relationship
距離感 - Sense of distance
心地いい - Comfortable
反応 - Reaction
仲良くなる - Becoming closer
観察 - Observation
砕けた話し方 - Casual speech
文化の違い - Cultural differences
返事 - Reply
会話の話題 (Conversation Topics)
日本語学習者として、敬語の使い分けで困ったことはありますか？どのように対応しましたか？
As a learner of Japanese, have you ever struggled with using different levels of politeness? How did you handle it?
「敬語バリア」を使った経験はありますか？もしくは使われた経験がありますか？その時の状況を話してください。
Have you ever experienced using the "Keigo Barrier"? Or have you been on the receiving end of it? Please share the situation.
あなたの国の言語や文化において、敬語バリアや敬語グラデーションのような概念はありますか？これは日本語特有のものだと思いますか？
In your country's language and culture, are there concepts similar to the "Keigo Barrier" and "Keigo Gradation"? Do you think these are unique to Japanese?
