The speaker discusses how Japanese people insult each other, explaining that direct insults are less common compared to Western cultures. Instead, Japanese insults often rely on breaking social conventions and using casual language in formal situations. The speaker provides examples of how to be insulting in Japanese by using imperative forms, addressing someone in a rude way, and using certain words or expressions. They also note that online communication can be more informal and insulting, but these behaviors are generally not used in person among strangers. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding subtle language nuances in Japanese culture to avoid unintentionally being rude.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. In Japan, insults are often indirect and rely on social context and nuances of language.
2. Japanese society is very hierarchical, and the way people speak depends on the relationship and who is more important.
3. Japanese has different levels of politeness, with two main types: polite Japanese and casual Japanese.
4. Using casual Japanese with someone who is supposed to be addressed with polite Japanese can be considered insulting.
5. The imperative form of verbs in Japanese can be used to give commands, but it is considered rough and rude.
6. The word "anta" is a polite way of saying "you" in Japanese, but it can also be used in a rude way when combined with other words or tone.
7. Rude ways of addressing people in Japanese include using the word "kono" (this person) or "ano" (that person).
8. On the internet, people often use words and expressions that they wouldn't use in person, such as "kimoi" (gross) or "muzui" (annoying).
9. Japanese insults often don't rely on sexualized language, unlike in some other languages.
10. Understanding the nuances of Japanese language and culture is important to avoid being unintentionally rude.
11. Japanese textbooks and apps often don't explain the subtleties of language and culture.