Hello everyone,
If you ever wonder how to Survive in Japan (or Asian in general)? Just say "Sorry".
"Excuse me" (sumimasen) is probably the most often used JSL/Japanese daily word.
(Arguably, the words "Cute" (kawaii) & "Delicious" (oishi) come very close.)
Japanese people say "Sumimasen" for almost any situation:
1. Late to work: Say, "Sumimasen"
2. Enter an elevator (with people already inside): Say, "Sumimasen"
3. Opening a door for someone: Say, "Sumimasen"
4. Get the top score on a test: Say, "Sumimasen"
5. Win the Nobel Prize: Say, "Sumimasen"
6. Receive a nice compliment: Say, "Sumimasen"
7. Giving money: Say, "Sumimasen" (So Japanese)
8. Receiving money: (First refuse, 3 times) then say, "Sumimasen" followed by "Arigato Gozaimasu" (So very Japanese)
Use "Sumimasen" in any situation and Japanese people will feel that you are a very "respectful" person.
Lowering your "Ego" is considered to have "Wonderful manners".
Think of the "Samurai Way" (Not be selfish, complain, or think you're the best).
"Excuse me" (sumimasen) is probably the most often used JSL/Japanese daily word.
