Japanese people have adopted several thinkings and principles in their daily living which has become the basis of how they view and handle situations.
We have listed here the terms which explains how Japanese think and approach events in their lives:
1. Shouganai - It is a widely used phrase in Japan which means “It cannot be helped.” However, there’s a philosophy meaning behind this phrase. Saying shouganai means you are accepting your defeat in a particular situation and you won’t try to do anything to change it because that’s already the way it is.
2. Mottainai - This Japanese term conveys to not waste things like food, clothes and other things. This concept does not only refer to physical waste but it can also be applied to a person’s lifestyle. Having a limited resources in Japan had made them learn to give importance to what they currently have.
3. Mono No Aware - Translated as “the pathos of things.” The concept of this phrase is to have a sense of awareness to the impermanence of things. A good example for this is the presence of Sakura or Cherry Blossoms every Spring which only last for a week.
4. Honne and Tatemae - Honne can be defined as the true feelings and desires of a person while Tatemae is the facade of one’s feelings and emotions expressed in public most especially in the workplace to maintain the social harmony. In other words, it means that a person have two faces: public and private. It is of great importance to the Japan’s culture.
5. Pasonaru Supesu - Pasonaru Supesu stands for Personal Space. Japanese loves and values personal space. Even in the hustle and bustle during rush hour, they can still establish their personal space. Likewise, they respect other’s personal space.
6. Otsukare - The term means “good job” and the phrase Otsukaresama deshita or “I’m tired” is often used to give compliment and show appreciation to a worker who spent his day doing hard work.
You see, most of these words imply a sense of value and respect to people and things. This is how Japanese people make themselves known.
Login with Google