Jyozu and umai. You'll learn these words if you learn Japanese. Actually you'll probably learn (and hear) jyozu well before you learn umai. This is a great subtlety in complements within Japan. Similar in concept, but entirely different in usage and true meaning when spoken. Jyozu means skilled or talented. Umai means absolutely terrific a.k.a. VERY skilled. Any time you attempt to do anything in Japan - be in speak the language, use the chopsticks, paint calligraphy or whatever someone will inevitably say "ah - jyozu desu ne!!" which is translated as - "that's great, you're so skilled" but really means "keep trying, you suck but you're at least giving it an effort." It's designed to make the recipient of the complement feel good, and yet know they have more to do. When you start to hear "ah, umai desu ne," then you know you're getting somewhere. That means there really impressed. Super impressed if they say "homma ni umai da yo ne!" or something along those lines. If you hear that, you know they're truly surprised at your skills. If you hear jyozu, keep trying :)
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Posted by Kristen at August 16, 2003 06:31 PM
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