Exercise 9: Tone of Requests

Often speakers talk hesitantly while alerting the hearer as to the upcoming request or while making the request. This helps to create a humble tone.

Example 1Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 2Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 3Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 4Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

ViewTranscripts

Often Also, speakers often show consideration for the hearer by using certain phrases or expressions. This contributes to the humble, caring tone.

Notice that certain words (such aschottoorsukoshi) are often used to minimize the request and are pronounced emphatically.

Example 1Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 2Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 3Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

ViewTranscripts

Hints are often used among very close friends or family members so that their tone of voice doesn’t sound too demanding.

Example 1Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 2Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 3Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

ViewTranscripts

Apology and thanking expressions or the intensifiers (for example, hontouni ‘so, really’) often get stressed to exhibit a sincere tone of voice.

Example 1Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 2Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 3Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 4Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 5Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 6Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

Example 7Your browser does not support theaudioelement.

ViewTranscripts

Note that when someone older in age or of higher status accepts a major request, expressions of gratitude often come with a series of bows!

Submit Your Questions and Comments about Exercise/Website

Go on to Exercise 10

Go Back to Requests Index