2019 Volume 16 Pages 73-90
This study investigates influences on verbal behavior based on the speaker’s view of human relationships. The question is derived from the unease and mutual misunderstandings that arise from differences in the use of language when Japanese and Chinese meet. Seeking an explanation for differing perceptions of interpersonal relationships, the study proposes several frameworks to explain the interplay of language and social relationships.
How does “miànzi” affect the handling of personal relationships and put its stamp on the verbal behavior of Chinese speakers? Diagrams depicting the interpersonal relationships of Chinese and Japanese people show a differing view of such relationships and how “miànzi” for the Chinese and “seken” for the Japanese cause different verbal behavior. Taking “face” (the general concept) and its Chinese version (miànzi) into account, speech patterns of Chinese and Japanese people as they build and maintain relationships are analyzed.
Finally, a survey recently conducted in Beijing, which asked how people address one another, paying attention to the use of kinship terms is considered. Among young people, in particular, a variety of new words and word usages have emerged, while the extrapolative use of kinship terms for non-relatives and those in the public sphere, especially when addressing superiors, has not changed much.
