Language and Mannerisms

Introduction
If you want to roleplay effectively and realistically, and not seem like a total buffoon, you're going to have to know how to talk. And to know how to talk, you need to know Japanese mannerisms.

The language used in Gensoukyou is a deep, mysterious-- No, not really. As should be obvious, again, Gensoukyou’s primary language is Japanese. Granted, there is most likely certain people or groups of people who speak Chinese, English, or some form of other language such as, perhaps, Makaian. The primary form of Japanese used in Gensoukyou is Early Modern Japanese, which is used within the “Edo” period (Around 17th - mid 19th century).

What does this mean in terms of roleplay? Well, beings that our roleplay is at least 99% English, it doesn’t mean a whole lot. What it does mean, however, is that we have to base our way of speaking around how it would be in Japanese culture. It /seems/ like such a task is no problem, but there will be times where you will run into certain quirks in the language. Hopefully this guide will help you along with making this as realistic of a RP as possible.

Honorifics
The Japanese language uses honorifics much like how English uses things like “Mister”,”Misses”, or “Doctor”, however it should be kept in mind that Japanese honorifics go much further than that. Here, however, is a list of basic honorifics you should or need to know:


 * “-san”: This is the most common honorific you will use. It is the equivalent of “Mister” or “Miss/Misses”. Usually, this is used in the form of “Surname”-san, much like Mr. “Surname”. This honorific is used for identifying people of equal standing to your own.


 * “-chan”(Female) or “-kun”(Male): A very personal honorific, this is usually paired with a “first name” or “given name” basis, or even a “nick name”. This honorific is used in regards to siblings, very close friends, lovers, or an older person in reference to someone younger. Using this honorific is, essentially, calling someone “cute” or “young” in an endearing manner.


 * “-sama”: This is a fairly common honorific when speaking to someone of greater standing or age than yourself. It is almost alway paired with the surname and can be equated to the english term “sir”. In some cases it is required to use “-sama” otherwise you may show disrespect to someone of higher authority, which in Gensoukyou, would be bad. Very bad.


 * “-sensei”: A teacher of sorts. This is fairly simple in usage, being only used in regards to someone whom you are a student to.


 * "-dono": One of the lesser honorifics you'll find yourself using, this is usually when referring to a master of sorts, such as if you are a servant. However, this can also be used as a sign of respect between two equals. Much like -sama, but without implying any difference in social standing.

Now, these honorifics may seem a bit scary at first, but over time you'll get used to it. Granted, we do allow for translating the honorifics into English, just remember that in doing this you may run into various problems, as the honorific system for Japan is very specific.

For more honorifics, check this wiki page

Verbal/Body Language Mannerisms
Really, the isn't much else to be said about the mannerisms of the Japanese language to keep in mind when "translating". However, here are some things to keep in mind:


 * The word, Itadakimasu, essentially means "Let's eat" or "Thank you for the food" and is used almost every time people eat together. In RP, if you're ever caught in a dinner party or something other, it's just a nice little fact to keep in mind.


 * This should be obvious, but bowing to someone when greeting them or apologizing is of great respect. This should be remembered.


 * Handshakes are no. See above.


 * Early Modern Japanese is not nearly as old as some other eras, obviously, but it should be remembered to at least /try/ to use older English to compensate. Saying things like "Yo, mang, where can I get me some swords, dog" is clearly unacceptable. Rather, try "Hello, -san, where, exactly, may I be able to purchase a sword?". Now, you can obviously be more relaxed, buut...

Author Notes
"Well, for now, I believe that is all this guide needs. Updates may come in the future, we'll see."

Makarov Kageki (talk) 21:52, 14 February 2013 (CST)