Category Archives: Discussion

Q. There aren’t many occasions in American to exchange business cards, so how are they able to learn to other person’s name?

Q. There aren’t many occasions in American to exchange business cards, so how are they able to learn to other person’s name? Answer: Americans do not use name cards, meishe, as frequently as Japanese do, so it is important during an introduction to grasp the other person’s name. When the person says to you, “Glad […]

Q. What is the proper way to introduce two people to one another?

Q. What is the proper way to introduce two people to one another? Answer: When introducing two people to one another, always turn first to the eldest person, or person of higher status. You might say, “Ms. Jones, I’d like you to meet Junko Konno, a friend of mine since high school.” Then turn to […]

Q. Why is the “Japanese smile” disliked?

Q. Why is the “Japanese smile” disliked? Answer: Americans love a friendly smile when it seems appropriate. The only problem is that Japanese smile for various reasons, including when they are embarrassed, apologetic and mentioning un–fortunate events. Someone who knows Japanese well can distinguish between these “types” of smiles and recognize the emotions they express, […]