There are many things that I agree with the author. Among them, the most interesting is trouble of ”yes” and “no” because I have an experience with it. Like writer said, there is confusion to express agree or disagree in case of negative question.
Not only Japanese but also Korean change answer “yes” and “no” when the sentence becomes negative question. For example, when people say “Can’t you turn off the TV?” or “Can you turn off the TV?” by English, response person say same answer “yes” to accept request. On the other hand, if the negative “Can’t you turn off the TV?” were translated to Korean or Japanese, we would say “no” to agree.
When I was in New York, there was similar situation. At that time, I had never spoken with foreigner so that I couldn’t talk with them but say “yes” or “no.” In subway station, I was trying to buy ticket. After buy ticket, the ticket seller ask me that “Won’t you want a subway map?” I was thinking little bit to translate in my word and said confidently “no” with holding out my hand. Of course he didn’t give me the map instead said “Alright here is your change.” At that time, I felt something was wrong but couldn’t ask what it was. Truly it is very tricky for Korean to say what means “yes” or “no” Even I still sometimes confuse it.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
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I had exact same experience too. My PE teacher asked me "aren't you coming" but I wasn't going to attend so I answered in Korean way "NO" and we talked back and forth so many times. I realized I should just say the full sentence last time lik "I'm not going to attend" instead of answering by yes or no but it was just a small episode from the past. it dones't confuse me anymore but yes for Korean or Japanese it's such an confusion! I agree.
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