1. Guests：

2. Husband：

Listen to the sample dialogues in Japanese below and compare how they might be similar to and/or different from typical interactions in English.

Listen to Sample Dialogue 1

     

Listen to Sample Dialogue 2

Japanese speakers tend to avoid complimenting other family members, or reject (or downgrade) compliments to family members in the presence of a third party. Listen to other examples.

Suppose that the guests find a family picture in the living room.

Click to Listen to Sample Dialogue 3

Suppose that the hosts and the guests are talking about their children.

Click to Listen to Sample Dialogue 4

Here are the transcripts of the exchanges above.

Sample Dialogue 1 Transcript

Sample Dialogue 2 Transcript

Sample Dialogue 3 Transcript

Sample Dialogue 4 Transcript

3. What might explain why Japanese speakers avoid complimenting their own family members in these situations? How should you interpret such behavior?

Your section (if applicable)/Your last name, Your first name:
Example: (in a box) 010/Smith, John

Submit Your Questions and Comments about Exercise/Website