Intersections: Languages and Cultures

Abstract

The study examines the role of English as a global language in the specific context of Japan, starting from the European experience and prejudice that Japanese people do not speak English. It outlines the role of English in a globalised world, then asks: to what extent can Japan be considered globalised in its economy, finance, technology, and the personal relationships of its people? The study presents the traditions that define the scope and behaviour of Japanese people in the use of foreign languages. It seeks the reasons why Japanese participants seem reticent in the business world and explores the role of distorted English words in Japanese contexts. It illustrates problems rooted in the Japanese articulatory base using examples, and provides a detailed analysis of the hindering factors arising from the educational system, particularly the backgrounding of speaking skills development.