The Japanese language is composed of numerous regional dialects, many of which are mutually unintelligible. It is not surprising, then, that dialectology (the study of dialects) has long been very popular in Japanese linguistics. Regional dialects are, however, rapidly fading away, due mainly to the influence of mass communication, which routinely utilizes kyōtsūgo ‘common Japanese’. As of the mid-twentieth century, unique dialectal forms and traits were most conspicuous only in the Okinawa, Kyūshū, and Tōhoku regions (Sanada 2002: 15).

A Linguistic Introduction

Dialects are valuable not only to appreciate the diversity of the contemporary Japanese language, but also to probe its historical development. Many specialists agree that peripheral (outlying/remote) areas tend to retain older forms. That is, dialectal variations – especially those heard in Okinawa, Kyūshū, and Tōhoku – are likely to be remnants of older forms once spoken in culturally central regions as well.

Dialects

This comprehensive introduction to the Japanese language consists of six parts. Following the introductory section, it explores the Japanese lexicon, grammatical foundations, major clause types, clause linkage, and language usage. The discussion of formal and structural properties of Japanese such as sound structure, vocabulary and grammar assist readers as they gain insight into historical and sociocultural aspects of Japanese; some are compared with those of English-speaking nations. An ideal choice for instructors, the book includes twenty-eight chapters, sufficient for approximately ninety hours of hands-on instruction. Each topic has been rigorously selected based on the author's experience of more than two decades teaching Japanese linguistics. The book's breadth and depth make it highly appropriate for learners of the Japanese language, for linguistics students interested in Japanese, and for researchers interested in Japanese linguistics. Online resources include exercises and supplementary multimedia materials to enhance the reader's comprehension and enjoyment.

Anastaska Кузнецова's Key Ideas from Japanese
by Yoko Hasegawa

A Linguistic Introduction

Dialects

Discover Key Ideas from Books on Similar Topics

Anastaska Кузнецова's Key Ideas from Japaneseby Yoko Hasegawa

A Linguistic Introduction

Dialects

Discover Key Ideas from Books on Similar Topics

Anastaska Кузнецова's Key Ideas from Japanese
by Yoko Hasegawa