Quote:
Originally Posted by jasonbvr
I wanted to explain a bit more about the term gaijin even chachava is right in saying it is just a shortened version of gaikokujin. Before I do though, you have to realize that 99% of gaijin living in Japan refer to themselves as gaijin and others as gaijin as well.
I have heard that some people take offence to being called a gaijin and here are some of my theories on it. When you look at the meanings for the character that makes up the first syllable gai 外, it can mean from the outside. So literally a person from a country outside of Japan for the term gaikokujin 外国人. Shortened to gaijin, some people may take it to mean outsider. Then there is another meaning that translates as bad. So gaijin becomes bad person.
But honestly, taking offence to being called a gaijin is just retarded. However sometimes their are people who have lived in Japan for quite a while, maybe even there whole life, but don't look Japanese. In this case they have a bit more to complain about being labeled a gaijin, but they are usually knowledgeable enough of Japan and Japanese to accept and expect this little faux paux.
I'll leave you with one of my new favorite phrases, just because we're both gaijin doesn't mean we're friends. HaHa...
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Very true about the gaijin bit. If you are in Japan and you aren't a native, then you are a gaijin. Best thing to do is embrace it.