Q.
What is “kiwotsukau”, and when do you see it happening?
A.
To “kiwotsukau” is to avoid claiming what you really want by putting others first.
For example, when you go out to eat with Japanese people, you will notice the last piece of food is always left on the plate. Even though people might want to eat it, they don’t want to seem greedy and feel bad if they claim the last bite.
Before showing your assertion, it’s important to think of how your actions might affect others. Think about what others might want first and see if you should kiwotsukau!
What do you think about this culture?
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