Foreign Words That Became Part of Japanese #17: Valentine's Day & White Day
In February and March, you often hear about "Valentine's Day" and "White Day" at schools and stores.
However, these two events are not simply overseas events brought to Japan.
There is quite a difference between its original meaning and how it is enjoyed in Japan.
Let's take a look at the roots of the word and the changes that are unique to Japan.
Etymology
- word: Valentine's Day
- Original Language: English (Latin name Valentinus in the background)
- Original meaning: Commemorative days and holidays related to St. Valentine on February 14th
- Usage in Japanese: A day to express your feelings by giving chocolate (extends to friends, family, idols, etc.)
- word: White Day
- Original Language: A Japanese-made name that sounds like English
- Original meaning: There are no widely established "holidays or anniversaries with the same name" overseas.
- Usage in Japanese: March 14th is the day to give back to those who gave you gifts (usually Valentine's Day gifts)
Background of its use as a Japanese word
Valentine's Day originally developed within European culture and has since spread to English-speaking countries as a day to express feelings.
Meanwhile, in Japan, the practice of giving chocolate as a gift became firmly established, and the culture of giving it to friends also spread.
In Japan, to make the custom of giving back easier to understand, White Day, celebrated on March 14th, was created and has since become established.
The article introduces how a confectionery company proposed "Marshmallow Day" as the starting point for White Day.
In other words, a major feature of Japan is that both the language and the events have been reorganized to fit Japanese life, and have taken root as a unique pair of events.
A little trivia
- On Valentine's Day overseas, what people give varies from country to country and household to household, including cards (messages), flowers, and meals.
- Not all countries, like Japan, have an absolute rule that "women give gifts to men," and it is common for couples to give gifts to each other.
- Another characteristic of Japan is that the purposes of giving gifts are divided into specific categories, such as ``obligation,'' ``friends,'' and ``treating yourself.''
- White Day is known to be a system that originated in Japan, and similar traditions have spread to other parts of Asia.
- There is also a school of thought that says that the most important thing about a return gift is to "consider the recipient" rather than the amount.
- The February → March set is easy to understand because it is easy to express the exchange of feelings through "giving → returning."
Why don't you talk with your child?
Try asking, "Is Valentine's Day known as 'Chocolate Day' around the world?" If you follow up with, "Did you know that White Day originated in Japan?", it's easy to notice the interesting aspects of the word.
If you think, "If we were to have a day with our family to express our feelings, what would we give?", the event will become something that concerns you personally.
Finally, asking, "When do you feel happy giving and receiving gifts?" can also help teach gentle communication.
