Sociocultural implications of the Japanese multi-scripts

要旨

Abstract This chapter analyzes the development of the Japanese writing system and the use of multiple types of scripts in translated texts in Japanese based on translanguaging . The sociolinguistic concept of translanguaging refers to the strategic use of linguistic repertoires across language boundaries by bilingual language users. In the case of translations of texts into Japanese, various scripts provide numerous communicative and expressive functions which allow users to adapt new concepts, creatively represent ideas, and critically convey their viewpoints. These abilities are often afforded by unconventional use of furigana , or small-sized kana that indicate the proper pronunciation of kanji characters. This study argues that translanguaging occurs not only in oral communications, but also through scripts, and is essential for languages to evolve by incorporating the surrounding sociocultural contexts.

主題