Page 252 - Easy Japanese - Learn to Speak Japanese Quickly! (TUTTLE)

kaku → okaki-suru “write”
matsu → omachi-suru “wait”

CULTURAL NOTE Politeness in Japanese Culture

While considerations of politeness play an important role in Japanese culture, the
linguistic skill to handle polite language correctly does not come naturally to all
native speakers. Many native speakers study the system and learn how to use
polite language, just as foreign learners do. In fact, polite language is taught at
school as part of the Japanese language curriculum.
For those entering the job market or are newly hired, it’s also not uncommon

to receive some training on how to speak professionally, focusing on correctly
using polite language. This explains why, besides a knowledge of Kanji
characters, a command of polite language is often taken as a sign of one’s
educational and intellectual level in Japanese society. Being a sophisticated,
mature speaker of the language contributes to one’s success in the society.

CULTURAL NOTE Gift Giving

Gift giving is an important part of Japanese life. It’s customary to bring small
food items such as cake or sweets when visiting homes or offices, and to bring
back local items from places you visit as gifts for those back home. These are
called omiyage (お土産). Slightly more substantial or expensive gifts should be
given twice a year, during the summer and in December, to business associates,
teachers, and others to whom you are indebted. These are called ochūgen (お中

元) and oseibo (お歳暮), respectively.
It is polite to reciprocate the sentiment (kimochi 気持ち) and give something
of slightly less value as a token in return (okaeshi お返し) when you have a

chance. To downplay the value of your gift, you can say, “It’s just my thought
(or a small token)” Hon no kimochi desu. (ほんの気持ちです。)
In business situations, this custom should not be confused with bribery. Gifts
should not be too lavish but of good quality, and always wrapped (The stores in
Japan will likely wrap them for you if you say it’s a gift—and the traditional way

of wrapping is quite unique). These can be bought from department stores all
around the country. Gift sets usually contain five or 10 pieces. Avoid four or nine
as these are unlucky numbers. Bring a number of small gifts to Japan to
distribute to new and existing contacts.