Japanese Letter Writing: A Guide to Penning Thoughts

How do you write a letter in Japanese? This question, seemingly simple, opens a door to a world of intricate writing systems, formal and informal styles, and a delicate dance of etiquette. The Japanese language, with its unique blend of characters, offers a rich tapestry of expression, each stroke and symbol carrying a nuanced meaning.

Navigating the complexities of Japanese letter writing requires understanding the three main writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Each system plays a distinct role in shaping the written word, reflecting the history and evolution of the language. Beyond the script, mastering the art of letter writing involves delving into the nuances of formal and informal styles, each with its own set of conventions and expectations.

Understanding Japanese Writing Systems

The Japanese language uses three main writing systems: Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji. Each system has its unique origins and historical development, contributing to the richness and complexity of Japanese writing.

Hiragana

Hiragana is a syllabary, meaning each character represents a syllable. It evolved from cursive forms of many Kanji characters. Hiragana is primarily used to write grammatical particles, verb endings, and words that do not have a corresponding Kanji.

Hiragana is characterized by its flowing, cursive style, making it visually appealing and easy to read.

• Pronunciation:Each Hiragana character represents a syllable, such as “a,” “ka,” “ki,” “ku,” “ke,” “ko,” etc.
• Examples:
  • あ (a) – “a” as in “father”
  • き (ki) – “ki” as in “kick”
  • く (ku) – “ku” as in “cook”

Katakana

Katakana is another syllabary, similar to Hiragana, but it originated from simplified forms of Kanji characters. Katakana is primarily used for foreign words, onomatopoeia, emphasis, and proper nouns.

Katakana is characterized by its angular, blocky style, making it visually distinct and often used for emphasis.

• Pronunciation:Each Katakana character represents a syllable, similar to Hiragana.
• Examples:
  • ア (a) – “a” as in “father”
  • キ (ki) – “ki” as in “kick”
  • ク (ku) – “ku” as in “cook”

Kanji

Kanji are logographic characters borrowed from Chinese writing. Each Kanji character represents a word or concept, often with multiple readings. Kanji are essential for writing most nouns, verbs, and adjectives in Japanese.

Kanji are highly complex and varied, making learning them a significant challenge for language learners.

• Pronunciation:Kanji can have multiple readings, depending on the context.
• Examples:
  • 本 (hon) – “book”
  • 人 (hito) – “person”
  • 日 (hi) – “sun”

Formal and Informal Letter Styles

Japanese letter writing, like many aspects of Japanese culture, places a strong emphasis on formality and respect. This is reflected in the distinct styles used for formal and informal letters. Understanding these differences is crucial for crafting appropriate and effective communication.

Formal Letter Styles

Formal letters in Japanese are used for professional and official correspondence. They adhere to strict conventions and are characterized by a highly respectful tone.

• Formal Greetings:Formal letters typically begin with a respectful greeting, often using the phrase “拝啓 (Haikei)” for a male recipient or “拝啓 (Haikei)” for a female recipient. These phrases are followed by the recipient’s name and title, if applicable.
• Formal Closings:Formal letters end with a closing phrase that expresses gratitude and respect. Common closings include “敬具 (Keigu)” for a male recipient or “敬具 (Keigu)” for a female recipient. These phrases are followed by the sender’s name and title.

• Formal Language:Formal letters employ a highly formal register of Japanese, using honorifics and polite language. This involves using specific verb forms and grammatical structures that convey respect for the recipient. For example, instead of using the verb “行く (iku)” meaning “to go,” a formal letter might use the honorific form “いらっしゃる (irassharu)” to show deference.

• Formal Layout:Formal letters are often formatted in a specific way, with the sender’s address and contact information placed at the top left corner of the page. The recipient’s address is typically placed on the right side of the page. The content of the letter is written in a clear and concise manner, with paragraphs aligned to the left margin.

Informal Letter Styles

Informal letters are used for personal correspondence with friends, family, and close acquaintances. They are characterized by a more casual tone and relaxed conventions.

• Informal Greetings:Informal letters often begin with a simple greeting, such as “こんにちは (Konnichiwa)” meaning “hello” or “元気ですか (Genki desu ka)” meaning “how are you?” followed by the recipient’s name.
• Informal Closings:Informal letters typically end with a simple closing phrase, such as “またね (Mata ne)” meaning “see you later” or “よろしく (Yoroshiku)” meaning “best regards.” These phrases are followed by the sender’s name.
• Informal Language:Informal letters use everyday language, often omitting honorifics and polite forms. This allows for a more natural and relaxed style of communication. For example, instead of using the formal verb “いらっしゃる (irassharu),” an informal letter might use the casual form “行く (iku).”
• Informal Layout:Informal letters are typically formatted in a less structured manner, with the sender’s and recipient’s addresses often omitted. The content of the letter can be written in a more conversational style, with paragraphs potentially indented or aligned to the left margin.

Examples of Formal and Informal Letters

Formal Letter Example:

拝啓貴社ますますご清栄のこととお慶び申し上げます。さて、この度はお忙しい中、当社の新製品「〇〇」にご関心をお寄せいただき、誠にありがとうございます。〇〇株式会社代表取締役社長 〇〇 〇〇

Informal Letter Example:

こんにちは、〇〇さん元気ですか？最近、〇〇に行って、〇〇っていうお店で美味しいラーメン食べました。〇〇さんもぜひ行ってみてね！またね！〇〇

Letter Structure and Format

A Japanese letter follows a specific structure, ensuring clarity and formality. The arrangement of elements is crucial for conveying respect and professionalism.

Structure and Format

Japanese letters are structured differently from their English counterparts. The order of elements is reversed, with the sender’s information at the bottom and the recipient’s at the top. This structure is designed to highlight the recipient’s importance.

• Recipient’s Address:The recipient’s name and address are placed at the top, aligned to the left. Use formal honorifics (e.g., 様 – sama) after the recipient’s name.
• Salutation:The salutation is placed below the recipient’s address and is typically written as “拝啓” (haikei) for formal letters or “敬具” (keigu) for less formal letters.
• Body:The body of the letter contains the message. Paragraphs are typically indented, and the tone should be polite and respectful.
• Closing:The closing is placed below the body and typically uses “敬具” (keigu) for formal letters and “拝啓” (haikei) for less formal letters.
• Signature:The sender’s name is written in the bottom right corner. The signature should be written in kanji or hiragana, followed by the sender’s name in katakana.
• Sender’s Address:The sender’s address is placed below the signature, aligned to the left.
• Date:The date is written below the sender’s address, aligned to the right. The Japanese date format is Year-Month-Day (e.g., 2023年12月25日 – 2023-nen 12-gatsu 25-nichi).

Common Phrases and Expressions: How Do You Write A Letter In Japanese

Mastering common phrases and expressions is essential for crafting effective Japanese letters. These phrases provide structure and formality, allowing you to convey your message clearly and respectfully. They are categorized based on their function, helping you navigate the nuances of Japanese letter writing.

Greetings

Greetings in Japanese letters vary depending on the level of formality and the relationship between the writer and recipient.

• Formal:

  敬具 (keigu)

  This phrase is used at the beginning of a formal letter. It conveys respect and formality, suitable for professional correspondence or letters to individuals you do not know well.

• Informal:

  拝啓 (haikei)

  This phrase is used at the beginning of an informal letter. It indicates a less formal tone, appropriate for letters to friends or family.

Apologies

Apologies are crucial in Japanese culture, and letters often express regret or acknowledge mistakes.

• Formal:

  この度は大変申し訳ございませんでした。 (konodo wa taihen moushiwake gozaimasendeshita.)

  This phrase expresses deep regret for an inconvenience or mistake. It is appropriate for formal letters where a sincere apology is required.

• Informal:

  ごめんね。 (gomen ne.)

  This phrase is a casual apology used in informal letters to friends or family.

Requests

Requests in Japanese letters are typically phrased politely and respectfully.

• Formal:

  何卒よろしくお願い申し上げます。 (nanjitsu yoroshiku onegai moushiagemasu.)

  This phrase expresses a strong request or plea. It is used in formal letters when seeking a favor or approval.

• Informal:

  お願い (onegai)

  This phrase is a general request used in informal letters. It can be followed by a specific action or favor being requested.

Closing Remarks

Closing remarks in Japanese letters signal the end of the message and express gratitude or goodwill.

• Formal:

  敬具 (keigu)

  This phrase is used at the end of a formal letter. It conveys respect and formality, suitable for professional correspondence or letters to individuals you do not know well.

• Informal:

  敬具 (keigu)

  This phrase is also used at the end of an informal letter. It indicates a less formal tone, appropriate for letters to friends or family.

Writing a Sample Letter

This section will present a sample Japanese letter for a specific scenario, demonstrating the use of appropriate writing styles, formatting, and phrases. It will provide a detailed breakdown of the letter’s structure and content, allowing you to understand the elements that make up a well-crafted Japanese letter.

Sample Letter of Introduction

This sample letter is written in a formal style and is addressed to a potential business partner. The letter introduces the sender, their company, and the purpose of the letter.

[Sender’s Name]様拝啓貴社ますますご清栄のこととお慶び申し上げます。さて、この度はお忙しい中、[Sender’s Company Name]の[Sender’s Position]を務めております[Sender’s Name]と申します。[Sender’s Company Name]は[Company’s brief description]を専門とする会社です。[Reason for writing the letter]貴社との連携を図り、[Expected outcome]を実現したいと考えております。つきましては、貴社にご訪問させていただきたく、ご連絡いたしました。お忙しいところ恐縮ですが、ご検討のほど、よろしくお願い申し上げます。敬具[Sender’s Name][Sender’s Company Name][Sender’s Contact Information]

• [Sender’s Name]様: This is the recipient’s name followed by 様 (sama), a respectful honorific used for addressing individuals.
• 拝啓 (haikei): This is a formal opening phrase used in Japanese letters.
• 貴社ますますご清栄のこととお慶び申し上げます (kisha masumasu goseiei no koto to oyorokobi moushiagemasu): This is a standard opening phrase expressing hope for the recipient’s continued prosperity.
• さて (sate): This is a transition phrase that introduces the main topic of the letter.
• この度はお忙しい中 (kono tabi wa o isogashii naka): This phrase expresses gratitude for the recipient’s time despite their busy schedule.
• [Sender’s Company Name]の[Sender’s Position]を務めております[Sender’s Name]と申します ( [Sender’s Company Name] no [Sender’s Position] o tsutsumatte orimasu [Sender’s Name] to moushimasu): This is a formal way of introducing oneself and their position at the company.
• [Sender’s Company Name]は[Company’s brief description]を専門とする会社です ( [Sender’s Company Name] wa [Company’s brief description] o senmon to suru kaisha desu): This describes the sender’s company and its specialization.
• [Reason for writing the letter]: This is the main purpose of the letter, outlining the reason for contacting the recipient.
• 貴社との連携を図り (kisha to no renkei o hazumi): This phrase expresses the sender’s desire to collaborate with the recipient.
• [Expected outcome]を実現したいと考えております ( [Expected outcome] o jitsugen shitai to kangaete orimasu): This describes the desired outcome of the collaboration.
• つきましては (tsukimashite wa): This is a transition phrase that introduces the next part of the letter.
• 貴社にご訪問させていただきたく (kisha ni gohoumon sasete itadakitaku): This expresses the sender’s desire to visit the recipient’s company.
• ご連絡いたしました (gorenraku itama shimashita): This is a polite way of stating that the sender has contacted the recipient.
• お忙しいところ恐縮ですが (o isogashii tokoro kyoushuku desu ga): This phrase expresses understanding of the recipient’s busy schedule.
• ご検討のほど、よろしくお願い申し上げます (go kentou no hodo, yoroshiku onegai moushiagemasu): This is a polite request for the recipient to consider the sender’s proposal.
• 敬具 (keigu): This is a formal closing phrase used in Japanese letters.
• [Sender’s Name]: This is the sender’s name.
• [Sender’s Company Name]: This is the sender’s company name.
• [Sender’s Contact Information]: This includes the sender’s contact details, such as phone number, email address, or company address.

Resources for Further Learning

Mastering the art of Japanese letter writing involves a journey of understanding various aspects, from the writing systems to formal and informal styles. To enhance your learning experience and delve deeper into the nuances of this skill, there are numerous resources available.

This section explores various resources, categorized by their level of difficulty and target audience. These resources include online platforms, textbooks, and other materials that can aid your journey towards becoming proficient in Japanese letter writing.

Online Resources, How do you write a letter in japanese

The internet provides a wealth of resources for learning Japanese letter writing, catering to diverse learning styles and preferences.

• JapanesePod101:This website offers comprehensive lessons on various aspects of Japanese language, including letter writing. Their lessons cover topics such as formal and informal styles, letter structure, and common phrases. JapanesePod101 is a great resource for beginners and intermediate learners, providing interactive exercises and downloadable materials.

• Tofugu:This website focuses on Japanese culture and language, providing insightful articles and resources on Japanese letter writing. Their articles delve into the history and cultural significance of letter writing, as well as practical tips for composing effective letters. Tofugu is suitable for learners at all levels, offering a blend of informative content and cultural insights.

• Memrise:This language learning platform provides interactive flashcards and games to help learners memorize Japanese vocabulary and grammar. Their courses on Japanese letter writing focus on key phrases and expressions commonly used in formal and informal letters. Memrise is an excellent resource for vocabulary building and reinforcement, especially for beginners and intermediate learners.

Textbooks

Textbooks provide a structured and comprehensive approach to learning Japanese letter writing, offering in-depth explanations and practical exercises.

• “Japanese for Busy People” by Tae Kim:This comprehensive textbook covers various aspects of Japanese grammar and vocabulary, including letter writing. It provides clear explanations and numerous examples, making it suitable for self-study and classroom use. This textbook is a valuable resource for beginners and intermediate learners, offering a solid foundation in Japanese grammar and vocabulary.

• “Japanese From Zero!” by George Trombley:This textbook focuses on practical language acquisition, covering essential grammar points and vocabulary, including those related to letter writing. It features interactive exercises and cultural insights, making it engaging and effective for learners at all levels. This textbook is particularly helpful for those who want to learn Japanese in a conversational and practical context.

• “The Japanese Language” by J. Marshall Unger:This comprehensive textbook delves into the intricacies of the Japanese language, including its writing systems, grammar, and cultural nuances. It provides in-depth explanations of letter writing conventions, making it an excellent resource for advanced learners and those seeking a deeper understanding of the language.

  This textbook is suitable for those who want to explore the linguistic and cultural complexities of Japanese letter writing.

Other Resources

Beyond online resources and textbooks, there are other valuable materials that can enhance your learning experience.

• Japanese Letter Writing Templates:These templates provide a structured format for writing various types of Japanese letters, including business letters, personal letters, and thank-you notes. They offer guidance on the layout, salutations, and closing phrases, making it easier to compose well-structured and grammatically correct letters.

  These templates are particularly helpful for beginners and those who want to ensure their letters adhere to proper conventions.

• Japanese Language Exchange Partners:Connecting with native Japanese speakers through language exchange platforms or online communities can provide invaluable practice in writing and receiving Japanese letters. This allows you to receive feedback on your writing and gain insights into authentic letter writing practices. This resource is beneficial for learners at all levels, fostering cultural exchange and improving communication skills.

Question Bank

What is the difference between Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji?

Hiragana is used to write native Japanese words and grammatical particles. Katakana is used for foreign words, onomatopoeia, and emphasis. Kanji are borrowed Chinese characters representing words and concepts.

How do I choose the appropriate letter style?

Formal styles are used for official correspondence, while informal styles are used for personal letters and communication with friends and family.

What are some common phrases used in Japanese letters?

Common phrases include greetings like “敬具” (keigu) for formal letters and “拝啓” (haikei) for informal letters, as well as expressions of gratitude, apology, and request.