The proper use of e-mail in Japanese

Writing a business mail in Japanese is an art of itself. There are a lot of fixed phrases, rules and things to take into consideration beyond simply communicating the intent of the mail.

Pros and cons of using e-mail

Pros

• easy to use
• one click takes care of the sending
• documents and pictures can be attached
• can be sent at any time and it doesn't put time constraints on the other party
• documents and written matter can be shared
• easy to reply to or forward
• copies are archived and can be kept

Cons

•  easy to make mistakes (sending to the wrong recipient, typing errors)
• it can give a rude or cold impression
• can't be sure if the recipient read it
•  can't know the reaction of the other party
• sensitive information can be leaked
• once sent, it cannot be taken back

Situations when other forms of communication are better

Phone  
- in an emergency, when you need to contact someone and receive an answer immediately
- in a company, when announcing that you'll be late or absent from work

Face to face communication
- when you need to apologize
- when discussing delicate matters

Handwriting, letters or printed matter
- formal communication (contracts, a change of directors etc.)
- important family ceremonies (weddings, funerals etc.)
- apologies or requests

Fax
- news of a person's death and funerals
- mass invites to events

Queen Himiko

Queen Himiko (or Pimiko) is a legendary figure that ruled the Yamatai kingdom that was formed in the Yayoi era. At that time, the territory of Japan was comprised of multiple, small countries that constantly fought with each other. The Yamatai kingdom was made up of around 30 such smaller states.

Himiko was popular with the people, and acted as a divine oracle, practicing spells and divination in order to ensure the wellfare of the country. She remained in her palace and never showed herself to the people. Only her younger brother was allowed to see her. He looked after her meals and everyday necessities, and transmitted the words she received from the gods to the people.

The existence of Himiko is documented in Chinese records. In 239, Himiko sent envoys to China and was recognized by the Chinese court as the ruler of Japan.

Himiko is featured in the 2013 Tomb Raider game

Japanese grammar - Aida

                                   

                                                            Aida 「あいだ」

            1. Space

- space between places or things

            Nのあいだ

            東京と名古屋の間をバスが通っている。

            There is bus service between Tokyo and Nagoya. 

            2. Time

- period of time in which a state or action continues

- events occur in the same interval

            Nのあいだ

            ADJ-いあいだ

            VB ている / VB る あいだ

            彼女が戻ってくるまでの間、喫茶店で本を読むことにした。

            I decided to read a book at the coffee shop until she returned.

            私が勉強している間、弟は遊んでいた。

            While I was studying, my younger brother was playing.

            [aida ni]

 - events in the main clause happen within the period covered by the aida clause

            N のあいだに

            ADJ-いあいだに

            NA なあいだに

            VB ている / VB る あいだに

            若い間に好きなことをしなさい。

            Do what you like while you are young.

            そうしている間に事態は悪化した。

            Meanwhile, the situation grew worse.

            食事と食事の間には何も食べない。

            I don't eat anything between meals.

            3. Relationship

- relationship between people or matters

            Nのあいだ

            彼らの間はうまくいっている。

            They get along well with each other.

            二つの事件の間には何か関係があるらしい。

            It seems that there is some relationship between the two incidents

            その論争は君達二人の間で決着をつけなさい。

            Settle the argument between yourselves.

            そのホテルは安くて清潔なので、旅行者達の間で人気がある。

            Since the hotel is cheap and clean, it is popular among travelers.　

Diagram illustrating the difference between aida and aida ni