The branch of linguistics dealing with language in use and the contexts in which it is used.
7
votes
1answer
140 views
What does 外国人のように imply in this sentence?
My friend is reading a book, and it contains the following sentence:
すると、高畑は外国人のように両手を上げる仕草をした。
Why does this say 外国人のように? Are foreigners known for a particular gesture in which we raise both ...
3
votes
1answer
109 views
Politeness level congruency
This question comes from observing a game show, where the participants have to match a product to the one they consume while blindfolded. They are only allowed to try one product at a time from the ...
7
votes
1answer
141 views
Situational acceptability of politeness and/or honorific use
Consider:
I am expected to use polite forms when speaking to someone socially above me. Let's take for example, a teacher.
If our relationship improves, and it becomes permissible for me to speak ...
