306
LINGUISTIC MEANS OF EXPRESSING EMOTIONALITY IN ENGLISH AND
JAPANESE
Berdimuratova Sarbinaz Polatovna,
Assistant-teacher, Karakalpak state university,
Malika Ubaydullaeva,
MA student, Karakalpak state university
Emotion serves as a cornerstone in human communication, influencing the dynamics of
interactions and fostering connections between individuals. Regardless of cultural backgrounds
and linguistic differences, humans employ a diverse array of linguistic strategies to effectively
convey their feelings. English and Japanese, as distinct languages rooted in rich linguistic
traditions, offer compelling avenues for exploring the expression of emotion. This paper embarks
on an examination of the linguistic means utilized in English and Japanese to articulate
emotionality, shedding light on the intricate interplay of linguistic structures, vocabulary choices,
and cultural influences that mold emotional expression within each language.
English and Japanese stand as emblematic representatives of linguistic diversity, each with
its unique nuances and conventions. Within the realm of emotionality, both languages exhibit
distinct characteristics in how feelings are articulated, perceived, and understood. By delving into
the linguistic fabric of English and Japanese, we can uncover the underlying mechanisms that
shape emotional expression, offering insights into the cultural and cognitive underpinnings of
human communication.
Through a comparative analysis, this study aims to elucidate the diverse strategies employed
in English and Japanese to convey emotions. From vocabulary choices that capture the nuances of
different emotional states to syntactic structures that shape the tone and intensity of expression,
each language offers a distinct palette for navigating the complex terrain of human emotion.
Moreover, cultural influences play a pivotal role in shaping the manner in which emotions are
expressed and interpreted, adding layers of richness and complexity to linguistic exchanges.
By illuminating the linguistic landscape of emotionality in English and Japanese, this
research seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of cross-cultural communication and
emotional expression. By examining examples and drawing parallels between these two
languages, we can glean valuable insights into the universality of human emotions while also
appreciating the diverse ways in which they are articulated within specific cultural and linguistic
contexts.
In essence, this paper serves as a journey into the heart of language and emotion, unraveling
the intricate tapestry of linguistic expression that binds individuals across different cultures and
languages. Through this exploration, we aim to foster greater appreciation and understanding of
the profound role that language plays in shaping our emotional experiences and interpersonal
relationships.
Example:
English:
She was over the moon when she received the promotion.
Japanese:
彼女は昇進を受けたときに大喜びだった。
(
Kanojowashōshin
o
uketatokiniōyoidatta.
) [1.1846]
Translation: She was ecstatic when she received the promotion. Write about that
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The expression of emotion through vocabulary selection is a significant aspect of linguistic
communication in both English and Japanese. Each language boasts a rich lexicon dedicated to
describing various emotional states, allowing speakers to articulate their feelings with precision
and nuance.
In English, a wide range of adjectives and adverbs are specifically tailored to capture the
breadth of human emotions. Words like "joyful," "ecstatic," "melancholy," and "despondent" offer
distinct shades of emotional intensity and sentiment. These terms allow English speakers to convey
their emotional experiences with clarity and specificity, enabling effective communication and
empathy. [2.412]
Similarly, Japanese offers a diverse lexicon for expressing emotions, reflecting the cultural
nuances and intricacies of emotional expression in Japanese society. Words such as "
嬉しい
"
(ureshii) for "happy" and "
悲しい
" (kanashii) for "sad" encapsulate the range of emotional
experiences encountered in daily life. Japanese speakers utilize these words to convey their
feelings authentically and accurately, contributing to meaningful interpersonal communication and
understanding.
Moreover, both English and Japanese feature idiomatic expressions and metaphors that
vividly capture emotional states, albeit with cultural nuances. These expressions serve as powerful
linguistic tools for evoking emotion and resonating with listeners on a deeper level. While English
idioms such as "over the moon" convey elation and excitement, their Japanese counterparts like "
大喜び
" (ōyoida) similarly capture the essence of ecstatic joy.
For instance, the English expression "She was over the moon when she received the
promotion" vividly portrays the protagonist's overwhelming happiness and excitement upon
receiving a promotion. Conversely, the Japanese translation "
彼女は昇進を受けたときに大喜
びだった。
" (
Kanojowashōshin o uketatokiniōyoidatta
.) conveys the same sentiment in a
culturally appropriate manner, illustrating the individual's exuberant reaction to the achievement.
Overall, the careful selection of vocabulary and the utilization of idiomatic expressions play
a crucial role in expressing emotionality in both English and Japanese. Through the adept use of
language, speakers can articulate their emotions effectively, fostering meaningful communication
and interpersonal connections across linguistic and cultural boundaries. [3.94]
Syntax and Sentence Structure:
Sentence structure and syntax also play a crucial role in conveying emotionality. English
often employs direct and explicit language to express emotions, while Japanese may rely on
implicit cues and contextual information. In English, declarative sentences with emphatic word
order or exclamatory sentences are frequently used to convey strong emotions. On the other hand,
Japanese employs honorifics, verb forms, and particles to indicate the speaker's emotional stance
and relationship with the listener.
Example:
English:
How wonderful it is to see you!
Japanese:
あなたに会えて嬉しいです！
(
Anataniaeteureshiidesu
!)
Translation: I'm happy to see you! Write about that
Syntax and sentence structure are pivotal components in conveying emotionality in both
English and Japanese. While English often employs direct and explicit language to express
emotions, Japanese relies on implicit cues and contextual information, utilizing various linguistic
features to convey emotional nuances effectively.
308
In English, declarative sentences with emphatic word order or exclamatory sentences are
frequently employed to convey strong emotions. The example "How wonderful it is to see you!"
exemplifies this, with the use of the emphatic adverb "wonderful" and the exclamation mark
emphasizing the speaker's genuine joy upon encountering the listener. The directness and clarity
of English syntax allow speakers to express their emotions overtly, facilitating straightforward
communication of feelings. [4.85]
Conversely, Japanese syntax and sentence structure are characterized by a nuanced
approach to expressing emotionality. Japanese employs honorifics, verb forms, and particles to
indicate the speaker's emotional stance and relationship with the listener. In the example "
あなた
に会えて嬉しいです！
" (
Anataniaeteureshiidesu!
), the verb form "
嬉しい
" (
ureshii
), meaning
"
happy," is modified by the particle”
"
て
" (te), indicating the present progressive tense, and the
honorific particle "
です
" (desu), which adds politeness to the expression. [5.19]
Furthermore, the omission of subject pronouns and the use of contextually understood
references contribute to the implicit nature of emotional expression in Japanese. The sentence
structure allows for the speaker's emotions to be conveyed indirectly, relying on the listener's
understanding of the social and situational context.
In essence, while English syntax tends to be more direct and explicit in conveying
emotions, Japanese syntax relies on implicit cues and contextual information to express emotional
nuances effectively. Both languages offer distinct linguistic strategies for expressing emotionality,
reflecting the cultural norms and communication styles prevalent in their respective societies.
Understanding these differences is crucial for effective cross-cultural communication and fostering
empathy and understanding across linguistic boundaries.
REFERENCES:
1.
Ikegami, Y. (2006). Syntax and Pragmatics in the Japanese Spoken Language. Journal of
Pragmatics, 38(11), 1840-1860.
2.
Ochs, E. (1996). Linguistic Resources for Socializing Humanity. In J. Gumperz& S. Levinson
(Eds.), Rethinking Linguistic Relativity (pp. 407-437). Cambridge University Press.
3.
Shibatani, M. (1990). The Languages of Japan. Cambridge University Press.
4.
Slobin, D. I. (1996). From "Thought and Language" to "Thinking for Speaking". In J.
Gumperz& S. Levinson (Eds.), Rethinking Linguistic Relativity (pp. 70-96). Cambridge
University Press.
5.
Strauss, S. (2009). A History of English Syntax. Edinburgh University Press.
「手」と「頭」をキーワードとした日本語とロシア語の表現単位の構造の比較分析
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE STRUCTURE OF JAPANESE AND RUSSIAN
IDIOMS WITH THE KEYWORDS “HAND” AND “HEAD”
Berdimuratova Sarbinaz Polatovna
Assistant-teacher, Karakalpak State University
Summary: This article is devoted to a comparison of Japanese and Russian idioms with the
keywords “hand” and “head” on their structure and formation. The research pays great attention
