Factors Governing the Selection of “shiyō ka” among Native Japanese Speakers as Seen from the Perspective of Politeness 1: (Im) politeness to Convey Intimacy and Distance

Abstract

When -mashō ka is used in atypical situations, it can imply coerciveness, condescension, or familiarity toward the listener. This study uses the concepts of convergence and distancing to explain the factors leading to such implications. The analysis revealed that -mashō ka allows the speaker to decide the tone of their interaction with the listener. The listener’s right to decide is seized by the speaker; thus, the form enables the convergence of the listener toward the speaker. The results demonstrated that while convergence represents familiarity, it also implies impoliteness through encroaching on the other party’s territory.