The kindness that resides in words: The richness that comes from the ambiguity of Japanese
Gentleness in words: The richness of Japanese language's ambiguity
Introduction: Ambiguity is not a flaw, it's a form of kindness
The word "ambiguous" is often used in a negative sense, meaning "unclear" or "difficult to understand."
However, ambiguity in Japanese is not simply unclearness.
it is,
It is a margin to avoid hurting the other person,
It is a buffer to prevent the relationship from breaking down.
It's like a cushion gently placed between our hearts.
The ambiguity of Japanese is
It contains a quiet wisdom that allows you to care for others.
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1. The kindness of not refusing, expressed in "I'll go if I can"
In Japanese, there are many expressions that avoid direct refusal.
• "I'll go if I can."
• "Maybe next time"
• "It might be a little difficult."
These are words used to avoid completely rejecting the other person's expectations.
Actually, I might not be able to go.
However, when I think about the other person's feelings, it hurts a little to say "I'm not going."
To ease that pain, Japanese chooses the kindness of "ambiguity."
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2. The cultural skill of "reading the atmosphere"
The ambiguity of Japanese comes hand in hand with the ability to read information outside the words.
• Tone of voice
• Between
• Facial expression
• Context
• The atmosphere of the place
Put these together to understand the meaning.
This is an advanced communication technique, a form of "mind reading" that Japanese culture has cultivated over a long period of time.
Ambiguity leaves the other person room to figure things out, which creates collaboration that doesn't damage relationships.
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3. Ambiguity creates a richness known as "white space"
The ambiguity of Japanese creates "space" within words.
• Not definitive
• Don't make assumptions
• Don't be definitive
It is because of this space that the other person can quietly leave their feelings.
White space is the space where people can breathe safely.
If Western languages value clarity, Japanese values white space.
It's not a question of which is better, but the space created by ambiguity is a beautiful cultural asset that only the Japanese language possesses.
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4. Ambiguity is the wisdom to protect relationships
The ambiguity of Japanese comes from a culture that values relationships over individuals.
• Respect the other person
• Don't disturb the harmony
• Avoid collisions
• Don't cause any offense
All of these are the wisdoms that will enable people to live peaceful, long-term relationships with each other.
Ambiguity is not a weakness, but a strength that can help protect your relationship.
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5. The "power of ambiguity" that will be necessary for the future of humanity
The world is moving faster and faster, more and more towards black and white.
• Immediate reactions on social media
• Society demands clear answers
• Binary arguments
• A world of assertive words
It is precisely in times like these that the "kindness" inherent in ambiguity will be necessary for future generations of humanity.
Ambiguity means not rushing, not making assumptions, and respecting the other person's leeway.
It's a technique that softens relationships and makes the world a little kinder.
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Conclusion: Ambiguity is a form of kindness
The ambiguity of Japanese is not a lack of clarity, but a quiet way of showing consideration for the other person.
Not speaking clearly is not running away, but a choice to protect the other person's feelings.
Ambiguity is a space in the form of kindness that is gently placed between people.
Even if the world becomes faster and more noisy 20 years from now,
This "kindness of ambiguity" will surely save someone's heart.
And WABISUKE's blog is,
It will become a quiet cultural gift that will pass on that kindness to the future.