1. Introduction
The Japanese language is full of unique and interesting words, phrases, and customs that are not found in other cultures. One of the most commonly used words in the Japanese language is ‘san’. This word is used as a term of respect and politeness when addressing someone else, and it is an integral part of their culture and language. In this article, we will explore why the Japanese say san, its history in Japan, how it is used in Japanese culture today, how to use it properly, different ways to address people using san in Japan, and more.
2. What Does San Mean?
San (さん) is a respectful title that can be added to someone’s name or surname. It can also be used by itself when addressing someone politely without using their name or surname. The literal translation of san into English would be Mr., Mrs., or Miss but it can also be used to show respect for someone regardless of gender or marital status.
3. Why Do the Japanese Say San?
The use of san dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868) when the samurai class was at its peak in Japan’s social hierarchy. During this time, people were expected to address each other with honorific titles such as ‘san’ or ‘sama’ depending on their social status. This tradition has been passed down through generations and continues to be used today as a sign of respect for others regardless of their social standing or age.
4. The History of San in Japan
The use of san dates back centuries ago when people were expected to address each other with honorific titles such as ‘san’ or ‘sama’ depending on their social status during the Edo period (1603-1868). The practice was meant to show respect for those higher up in society while also providing a sense of familiarity between those who had similar social standings. Over time, this practice became more widespread throughout Japan and eventually evolved into what we know today as simply using ‘san’ as a sign of respect for anyone regardless of status or age.
5 How Is San Used in Japanese Culture?
San is now commonly used by people all over Japan as a way to show respect for others regardless of age or rank within society. It can be added after someone’s name when speaking directly to them or referring to them indirectly (e.g., Tanaka-san). It can also be used without a name when addressing someone politely (e.g., sumimasen – excuse me). In addition to being used as a sign of respect, san is also sometimes used as an informal way to refer to friends and family members who are close in age such as siblings or classmates (e.g., ani-san – older brother).
6 How To Use San Properly In Japan
When speaking directly with someone who you do not know well it is important that you use san properly so that you do not come across as rude or disrespectful towards them. When addressing someone directly you should always add their name followed by “san” (e.g., Tanaka-san). When referring to them indirectly you should still include their name but without adding “san” at the end (e.g., Tanaka). You should also avoid using first names unless they have given you permission beforehand since this can come across as too familiar and disrespectful if they are older than you are or have higher social standing than you do..
7 Different Ways To Address People Using San In Japan
In addition to using san after someone’s name there are several other ways that it can be used when addressing people politely in Japanese culture:
• Sensei: Used for teachers, doctors, professors etc..
• Sama: Used for customers at stores/restaurants
• Gozen: Used for people with higher social standing
• Kun: Used for younger males
• Chan: Used for younger females
• Bocchan: Used for children
• Ojiisan/Obaasan: Used for elderly men/women respectively
These terms should only be used if appropriate since some may come across as too familiar if used incorrectly which could lead to offense being taken by the person being addressed..
8 Conclusion
In conclusion, the word ‘san’ has been part of Japanese culture and language since ancient times and continues to be widely used today as a term of politeness and respect when addressing others regardless of age or rank within society.By understanding why the Japanese say san,its history,how it is currently being utilized,how one should use it properly,different ways one can address people with ‘san’,one will gain greater insight into the rich cultural heritage behind this simple yet powerful word.
9 Sources And Further Reading
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Tokoyama C R.”Why Do The Japanese Say San?”.Japan Insiders.Accessed May 2021.https://www.japaninsiders.com / why – do – japanese – say – san /
Why do Japanese say kun?
Kun (君/くん) is usually used to refer to a person of senior status to someone of junior status or it is usually used when referring to a boy or young man or a close male friend.
Can you use SAN for a girl?
San is gender-neutral and is always suitable as a suffix for feminine names. There are other name suffixes that show more respect but thats secondary here.
Can I say Kun to a girl?
Not only can Kun converse with women on an appropriate basis but also with a close friend or family member. Calling a woman -kun is not offensive and while it is not a common implication it can mean that the person is sincere.
What does Ara Ara mean in Japanese?
Oh me, oh my
Ara ara (あら あら) is a Japanese expression that is mainly used by older females and means “My my”, “Oh dear”, or “Oh me, oh my”.
What does Domo mean in Japan?
Domo means a lot. This is especially useful when expressing gratitude or apologizing. When you buy something from a shop the seller says DOMO ARIGATOU which means thank you very much. You can also use Domo as a greeting. And just saying DOMO can mean a casual thank you.
Why do Japanese say senpai?
Senpai (せんぱい) is equivalent to senior which is used for upper class classmates and all people who are more experienced than you in a club or any kind of group at work.
