한일 거절표현의 구조에 대한 사회언어학적 접근

Abstract

This research compared and analyzed the refusal expressions in Korea and Japan. The result of the investigation is as follows:1) Both countries have the same patternof semantic formulas for refusal expressions that includes [Apology> Explanation for Refusal> Expression of Impossibility> Promise] in order of decreasing frequency. It is notable that Koreans utilize more varied expressions whereas Japanese resort to somewhat standardized expressions. 2) In Japan, "Apology," "Explanation for Refusal," and "Promise"constitute a high percentage of refusal expressions while Koreans frequently use "Alternative Proposal," "Calling One’s Attention," and "Hesitation." This shows that Koreans more indirectly decline requests from their seniors than Japanese people. 3) In order to mitigate the uneasiness of Expressing Impossibility, Koreans use a number of different semantic formulas before and after Expressing Impossibility. On the other hand, Japanese people tend to use semantic formulas only before Expressing Impossibility. 4) Koreans use the pattern of [Apology + Explanation for Refusal + Expressing Impossibility + Apology, Alternate Proposal, Promise] most frequently whereas Japanese people usethe pattern of [Apology + Explanation for Refusal + Expressing Impossibility + Proposing Preconditions + Promise] most frequently. It is interesting to note that Japanese have the pattern highly standardized. Moreover, when Expressing Impossibility, Koreans use relatively more "Hesitation" and "Calling One’s Attention"compared to Japanese. The reason for this particular pattern may be to express uneasiness and convey an apologetic feeling for Expressing Impossibility and create a sense of closeness. 5) In providing explanations for refusal, Koreans cite [Personal Reasons>Customary Reasons>Public Reasons] in order of decreasing frequency whereas Japanese cite [Customary Reasons> Personal Reasons>Public Reasons]. In other words, Koreans use reasons such as a lack of talent or family circumstances whereas Japanese people excuse themselves using customary reasons.