日本人は断り表現において丁寧さをどう判断しているか : 長さと適切性からの分析

概要

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This study attempts to investigate the correlation of length with appropriateness in terms of refusals to an invitation. The data was collected from 116 Japanese native speakers who participated in a survey. The survey consisted of two variables: 1) length (long/short) and 2) appropriateness (appropriate/inappropriate). The analysis of the survey results verified the general hypothesis that, "Longer expressions are politer than shorter expressions with regard to refusals under the condition that the expression is appropriate." The results of the present study show an important implication for learners of the Japanese language. The Japanese language is considered HC communication (High Context). This means that the context of communication is important in socio-cultural discourses regarding Japanese language use. If these socio-cultural expressions of communication are not followed, communication is considered incomplete (Hall 1976). This suggests that learners also need to be able to estimate the appropriate level of politeness in a close relationship and to use acceptable expressions when speaking with Japanese native speakers.