This video explains "aizuchi," the various interjections and noises Japanese people use during conversations. The speaker details the functions of aizuchi, including showing engagement, encouraging further conversation, and creating a comfortable atmosphere. The video then provides examples of common aizuchi, explaining their nuances and appropriate usage.
This video provides a comprehensive guide to "aizuchi," the various vocalizations Japanese speakers use during conversations. The speaker, Kaname Naito, begins by explaining the importance of aizuchi, emphasizing that their absence can be perceived as disinterest or rudeness. The core function of aizuchi is to signal active listening and engagement with the speaker.
The video then delves into a detailed explanation and examples of various aizuchi, categorized by their implied meaning. Aizuchi indicating agreement include "hai hai," "so," and "so desu ne," with variations in politeness levels. Expressions of surprise range from the polite "e" to the more informal "a," and even exaggerated versions to show heightened surprise. Aizuchi indicating understanding include "sō nan desu ka," used when new information is learned. The video carefully differentiates between expressions like "sō desu ne" (oh, I see) and "sō nan desu ka" (oh, is that so?), highlighting their subtle differences in meaning and context.
Furthermore, the video addresses aizuchi used when thinking or searching for words ("un"), when making decisions ("yokana"), when remembering something ("sō da"), or when expressing wishes or regrets ("ah"). It also covers aizuchi to show sympathy ("ara ara"), to calm someone down ("mā mā," "dō dō"), to express embarrassment ("hee"), envy ("mā"), or frustration (a clicking sound). Throughout the video, the speaker emphasizes the importance of context, politeness levels, and potential cultural misunderstandings. Specifically, the video strongly cautions against using certain aizuchi, such as "ha" or the clicking noise, which are considered very rude and offensive. The video concludes by reinforcing the importance of learning aizuchi for effective and polite communication with Japanese speakers.
