Sociopragmatics of Japanese: Theoretical Implications

Obana and Haugh argue that commonly accepted theories in pragmatics cannot explain sociopragmatic phenomena in Japanese, perpetuating stereotypes about the Japanese. This book challenges these assumptions and emphasizes the importance of examining sociopragmatic phenomena in Japanese for empirical insights. The content is structured in three parts, highlighting key building blocks of a theory of sociopragmatics. It proposes a framework for exploring sociopragmatic phenomena and offers fresh perspectives on time-honored phenomena. It will interest scholars and postgraduate students in pragmatics, particularly those specializing in politeness, impoliteness, indirectness, and irony.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Obana and Haugh raise critical questions about the extent to which widely accepted theories in pragmatics can effectively explain sociopragmatic phenomena in Japanese. Studies on Japanese pragmatics have frequently challenged the cross-linguistic applicability of dominant theories, while inadvertently perpetuating stereotypes about the Japanese. For instance, it is commonly assumed that Japanese people are less strategic, more polite, and more reliant on tacit forms of communication compared to speakers of other languages. However, these assumptions need to be reevaluated.

The primary objective of this book is to challenge these prevailing notions surrounding politeness, impoliteness, irony, and indirectness while simultaneously highlighting the valuable empirical insights gained from examining sociopragmatic phenomena in Japanese. The content is organized into three parts, each focusing on a crucial aspect of a theory of sociopragmatics. Part I explores indexing through the lens of chapters on honorifics, routine formula, and politeness strategies. Part II examines evaluation through the lens of chapters on giving/receiving expressions and honorific irony. Part III explores relating through the lens of chapters on joint utterances and off-record requests. Throughout the chapters, the authors draw attention to the intricate ways in which these three dimensions are interconnected.

This book goes beyond a mere compilation of studies that enhance our understanding of the sociopragmatics of a specific language. It delves deeper and challenges what many have taken for granted in pragmatics. It proposes a comprehensive framework for exploring sociopragmatic phenomena, building upon the fundamental sociopragmatic axes of orientation, deixis, and power. By employing this framework, the book offers insightful perspectives on a wide range of sociopragmatic phenomena in Japanese, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of the language.

In conclusion, Obana and Haugh's book is a valuable contribution to the field of pragmatics, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on sociopragmatic phenomena in Japanese. It challenges prevailing assumptions, promotes a deeper understanding of the language, and provides a valuable framework for exploring sociopragmatic issues. This book is a must-read for scholars, researchers, and language enthusiasts interested in advancing our knowledge of pragmatics and cross-cultural communication.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367521202