Use of language in
Toyoko kids
Paralinguistics
by Yuta
Introduction
Paralinguistic is the way language is spoken. This is different from context, in that context is what someone is saying vs paralinguistic is how language is spoken. For example, tones of voice, pitch, loudness etc.
Functionally, it is generally agreed that non-segmental phonology provides the main method of communicating emphasis and personal attitudes (sarcasm, surprise, etc) in language (Ardener, 2006)
In observing these different forms of using language in the Toyoko hiroba, I realized that many of them follow a similar rule in using them and that it is all connected to how it helps with making connections with strangers easier.
High pitch
Pitch is a feature of paralinguistic categorized in the prosodic features. This feature indicates meaning in language that comes from combinations of dissimilarities in pitch, loudness and tempo. Usually, the difference in pitch comes from whether it is higher, lower or the same as before. Regarding this topic, there is a common association between males and low pitch, and females and high pitch. But, in the Toyoko hiroba, the use high pitched voices are used, amongst both males and females. High pitch of voice reduces intimidation, and so this may also be a way that makes establishing relationships with strangers easier.
Example
One time, I was observing a group of guys and girls sitting in a circle on the ground. One girl was doing her makeup and two others were dancing. They were all talking to each other in loud voices, and especially the girls but the guys too had very high pitched voices compared to when guys usually talk to each other.
ぶりっ子声 (burikko-koe)
This is a unique type of a use of pitch in language specific to Japan. When talking about pitch, in addition to the difference in high and low pitch, there is another factor which is intonation.
The patterns of pitch-movements that occur in a language are referred to as the intonation. Connected speech is considered as analysable into a series of units of intonation which have a definable internal structure, and which function in sequences to produce melodic contours of a more general nature (Ardener, 2006)
Elongating word endings
Another factor in the prosodic features, tempo. Tempo is when certain syllables are made shorter or longer. This change in tempo can also be noticed in the hiroba. Elongating endings of words is not uncommon in Japan. It can signal many messages such as, laziness, cuteness, casualness etc. Although they can signal a variety of messages the one similarity between all is that it shows a lack of harm and openness. This use of language makes it feel like it is easier to connect to other people by showing that they mean no harm. In the Japanese writing the elongation is symbolized with “-”.
Example
In the same example as the page before, when greeting each other one guy said ”あ、コムちゃん久しぶりー”; translation being oh, long time no see Komu-chan. Then the guy answered ”おはよー”; which translates to good morning. By simply elongating the ending of the words it makes the conversation much more casual and approachable.
burikko-koe is a Japanese specific way of talking, mainly seen used by females. It has a high pitch and an intonation that aims for the language to sound cute. It sounds very fake when used in normal circumstances, but this intonation can be largely observed in the Toyko hiroba. This may be an effect of the subculture, and also a way to again, reduce intimidation in order to make people feel safer.
Example
An example used before, but when two girls were complimenting each other’s clothings they used this voice. Another time, I was standing outside of the hiroba, when I heard two girls talking to each other saying these things in the burikko-koe, “なんでー” ”ねーねー”。The closest translation for these are why? and yoyo. Using this voice makes this random statement meaningful in that they are communicating submissiveness but at the same time showing their unique individuality, which may make them more approachable for the people in the hiroba.
Conclusion
How language is spoken, paralinguistic, provides another viewpoint on how language is used to make relationships with strangers. The high and unique use of pitch, as well as the use of tempo, makes them more approachable by communicating that they are harmless. By showing a certain amount of submissiveness they are able to more effectively and openly communicate to each other even on first contact.
Sections
Use of Language