Japanese Praise Expression Study

In daily life, a variety of language expressions are used to build and maintain good relationships. Among them, the expression of compliment is one of common speech act in daily life. It is a speech act to express concern and affirmation. An appropriate praise will shorten the distance between the two sides of communication, so as to establish and maintain a good interpersonal relationship. However, an improper compliment will threaten other’s dignity, or even destroy the relationship between the two sides. Therefore, the study on the expression of compliment is of great importance. Especially in the communication of people with different cultural backgrounds, how to praise each other appropriately and avoid misunderstanding and friction is very important.In this thesis, the expression of compliment in Japanese is studied. Ten of contemporary Japanese films were selected and the expressions of compliment appeared in these films were collected. The content, form and usage of praised expressions were discussed. According to the “hierarchy of relationship” and “the closeness or distance of relationship”, the usage of praised expressions was analyzed specifically. In order to sort out a complete system for the praised expressions in Japanese, and avoid the conflict caused by improper compliment in communication of different cultures.