During a conversation, Japanese people often say "yes, yes" and nod their heads. This does not mean agreement with your words, but it is only a polite signal that you are heard and understood. Therefore, do not be surprised if, after a conversation during which the Japanese constantly nodded, you suddenly get a refusal.
Let's show the other party that we are listening with aizuchi
Such short responses to the speaker are called 相槌 (aizuchi). If you use aizuchi in your speech, it will sound more natural. And neglecting them for a Japanese speaker will mean your lack of interest in the conversation. Let's look at some aizuchi:
1.うん、うん(Un, un) or ええ、ええ(Ee, ee): I'm listening to you, go on (accompanied by a nod)
This is the most common aizuchi for softening speech. Used to avoid silence. If you do not know what to answer and want the other person to continue, then use this.
This is the most common aizuchi for softening speech. Used to avoid silence. If you do not know what to answer and want the other person to continue, then use this.
2. へぇ～！(Heeeee! ): Really?! (I didn't know that!)
By saying this aizuchi, you show the other person that you are surprised by his/her knowledge and encourage him/her to continue talking. In fact, you express your admiration.
By saying this aizuchi, you show the other person that you are surprised by his/her knowledge and encourage him/her to continue talking. In fact, you express your admiration.
3. ふ～ん(Huun): That's how... (I learned something new).
It is pronounced to show the speaker that you have learned something new. Usually used to show interest in a topic of conversation, because the other person is more knowledgeable about the subject than you are.
It is pronounced to show the speaker that you have learned something new. Usually used to show interest in a topic of conversation, because the other person is more knowledgeable about the subject than you are.
4. なるほど(Naruhodo): Oh, that's right! (Now I understand it much better).
Often used when you want to show a deeper understanding of an issue. You show that you fully understood the speaker.
Often used when you want to show a deeper understanding of an issue. You show that you fully understood the speaker.
5. そうなんですか (Sou nan desu ka): Ahh… now I understand… (Now I understand the situation).
With this phrase, you can express your sympathy to the speaker. You may find yourself in a situation of listening to complaints, problems, etc., in which you feel like you want to say something, but you don't know what, then use this.
With this phrase, you can express your sympathy to the speaker. You may find yourself in a situation of listening to complaints, problems, etc., in which you feel like you want to say something, but you don't know what, then use this.
It is very important for the Japanese to show attention and interest throughout the conversation. Aizuchi is an integral part of the Japanese language and one of the keys to successful communication.
Do you use aizuchi when talking to Japanese people? Let’s exchange more aizuchi in the comments.
