Tsukiai (付き合い):** Social interaction and relationships.

1. Today's Japanese words

* **Tsukiai (付き合い):** This is a general term for social interaction and relationships.à

Here's some basic Japanese vocabulary related to socialization, meetings, and parties, with romaji for pronunciation:

* **Kaisha (会社):** Company (used for work events)

* **Nomukai (飲み会):** Drinking party (informal gathering)

* **Enkai (宴会):** Banquet (formal gathering)

* **Konpa (コンパ):** Social gathering (often for singles)

* **Kanpai (乾杯):** Cheers!

* **Shokuji (食事):** Meal

* **Settai (接待):** Entertainment of business guests

* **Otsukaresama deshita (お疲れ様でし た):** Thank you for your hard work (used after work events)

Here's some basic Japanese vocabulary related to socialization, with romaji for pronunciation:

* **Aisatsu (あいさつ):** Greeting

* **Hajimemashite (はじめまして):** Nice to meet you (first meeting)

* **Konnichiwa (こんにちは):** Hello (informal, daytime)

* **Konbanwa (こんばんは):** Hello (informal, evening)

* Ohayōgozaimasu (おはようございます):** Good morning

* **Gokigen ikaga desu ka? (ご機嫌いかがですか):** How are you? (formal)

* **Genki desu (元気です):** I'm fine. (informal)

* Douzo (どうぞ):** Please (offering something)

* Arigatouございます (ありがとうござい ます):** Thank you (formal)

* Sumimasen (すみません):** Excuse me

* Onegaishimasu (おねがいします):** Please (requesting something)

2. Today's topic

Japanese socialization

Japanese socialization emphasizes group harmony, respect for hierarchy, and collectivism. This is instilled from a young age through family, schools, and society at large. Let me know if you'd like to delve deeper into specific aspects of Japanese socialization.

Here's a summary of the benefits and drawbacks of Japanese socialization:

**Benefits:**

* Strong sense of community and belonging

* Emphasis on cooperation and social order

* Encourages respect for elders and those in authority

**Drawbacks**

* Can suppress individuality and creativity

* Difficulty expressing dissent or disagreement

* Pressure to conform to group expectations

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There are a few reasons why some young Japanese men might be resistant to traditional socialization:

* **Pressure to conform:** The emphasis on group harmony and collectivism can stifle individuality, making it difficult for young men to express themselves or pursue their own interests.

* **Limited emotional expression:** Traditional masculinity in Japan discourages open expression of emotions, which can be isolating for young men who are struggling.

* **Changing social values:** As Japan becomes more globalized, younger generations are exposed to different social values that emphasize individualism and self-expression. This can lead to a clash with traditional expectations.

3- Today’s news

Natto bacterium can add more protein, enhance flavor of food

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15190894

60% in Japan don't like cherry blossom viewing with colleagues, call events 'work': survey

https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20240326/p2a/00m/0na/031000c

When asked if cherry blossom viewing with colleagues falls under work, approximately 60% of the respondents answered it is either "definitely work," "work" or "somewhat work."