Gaijin-san is the word used to refer to foreigners in Japan. This is a shortened version of the term gaikokujin (“outside person”). It literally means “alien.” It can be used in a derogatory way, but simply means “foreigner” when used respectfully (with the suffix -san). Although the term may seem insulting at first, it can actually be used to your advantage when attempting to communicate in Japanese.

You may make many mistakes, both linguistically and culturally, but you can always play the “gaijin card.” Most Japanese people feel that their language and culture are so complicated that only Japanese people can truly understand them. Therefore, any effort to speak Japanese or emulate Japanese culture is treated as an act worthy of applause and most mistakes will be swiftly forgiven.

Everyone Is a Potential Teacher

While traveling in Japan, treat everyone as a potential instructor of Japanese language. Some “teachers” may be subtle in their instruction. A widely used technique is to repeat back to you the correct version of what you are trying to say, so pay close attention. The gas station attendant, your server at the restaurant, and the sushi chef can provide valuable lessons in grammar, vocabulary, syntax, and pronunciation.

Utilizing a few simple phrases will get you through a variety of situations:

If you have questions about how to conjugate a verb, you can list the options and then add:

Heart to Heart Communication

Grammar plays an essential role in all languages. It helps to discern requests from commands and identifies what is being done to whom. But when it comes down to real communication, sincerity and determination play the leading roles.

Many Japanese teachers of English, until recently, focused on the acquisition of vocabulary and boring grammar, causing many students to despise their English lessons. These same kids who slept through English class are delighted to find that when communicating with foreigners, earnestness counts much more than word order when conveying what it is they want to say.

The same goes for Japanese. Forget grammar if it gives you a headache. Draw on your creative resources when giving explanations. Use what you do remember and let the rest come through in your facial expressions and body language.