In this article we will look at Japanese honorific language, called keigo (敬語), and suggest how you might use it in the course of an interview. Broadly speaking, keigo is divided into three main categories: sonkeigo (尊敬語) or “respectful language”, kenjōgo (謙譲語) which is … [Read more...] about Using Keigo in a Japanese Job Interview
The Dos and Don’ts of a Japanese Language Job Interview
If you are lucky enough to be offered an interview in Japan, and (gasp!) the interview is in Japanese, then you are going to need to know the basic rules for polite language in that kind of super-formal situation. Even if you are familiar with the rules, it is a good idea to … [Read more...] about The Dos and Don’ts of a Japanese Language Job Interview
The Japanese Days of the Week & the Planets
In this article we are going to look at the names of the days of the week in Japanese. Not only are these names essential beginners’ vocabulary items, but they also provide a good way to learn some basic kanji. Most of the kanji used for the days of the week are derived … [Read more...] about The Japanese Days of the Week & the Planets
How to Use Katakana Words in Japanese Business Jargon
Business language in English is famous for its overly complex jargon which though intended to impress the listener, often leaves people scratching their heads. The situation is similar in Japan, but an interesting point is that many popular Japanese business buzzwords have been … [Read more...] about How to Use Katakana Words in Japanese Business Jargon
Cushion Words: Useful Japanese Expressions for Introducing Awkward Topics
The Japanese language has many useful expressions that can be used to make otherwise awkward topics less blunt. In Japanese these are called クッション言葉 (kusshon kotoba) which literally means “cushion words.” The name is appropriate as these phrases have a softening effect when … [Read more...] about Cushion Words: Useful Japanese Expressions for Introducing Awkward Topics