Synopses & Reviews
Observing the nuances of language, Shunji Suzuki contends, is more complicated than simply cataloging speech patterns. Language includes a set of unconscious expectations that communicate much, much more.
Words in Context is an exploration of the intimate relationship between language and lifestyle, psychology, and culture. Suzuki convincingly illustrates the dangers of isolating words from their cultural context, and focuses on the types of misperceptions that result from such widely held practices. Citing examples from Japanese and other languages, he demonstrates how words carry nuanced cultural baggage and must be considered in the broader context of culture, history, and social mores to fully appreciate their potency.
Review
"Fascinating observations...Frank and perspicacious theories on the Japanese people themselves."
-The Japan Quarterly
"Written in a lucid and witty style.... Extremely instructive." -Monumenta Nipponica
"Even for those not interested in learning to speak Japanese, this book contains many useful sociolinguistic insights." -Library Journal
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. 170-177).
About the Author
One of Japan's foremost sociolinguists, TAKAO SUZUKI is recognized internationally for his contributions to the field. Long affiliated with the Institute of Cultural and Linguistic Studies, Suzuki has been a visiting professor at Yale University and a visiting fellow at Cambridge University and other colleges.