1.
casual speech; informal language; peer language
Informal speech used between equals or close friends, as opposed to polite or honorific language. Characterized by plain verb forms and casual vocabulary. Often discussed in the context of Japanese social hierarchy and age relationships.
先輩にタメ口はよくない。
Using casual speech with a senior is not appropriate.
仲がいいからタメ口で話している。
We're close, so we speak casually to each other.
初対面の人にいきなりタメ口を使うのは失礼だと思われることが多い。
It is often considered rude to suddenly use casual speech with someone you've just met.
ETYMOLOGY:
タメ comes from the gambling term meaning "same" (same score/rank), referring to people of equal standing. 口/口 means "speech" or "way of talking."
CULTURAL NOTE:
In Japanese society, the choice between 敬語 (polite language) and タメ口 is an important social decision. Using タメ口 with someone older or of higher status is generally considered rude, while switching from 敬語 to タメ口 between peers signals growing closeness.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- タメ口を使う (to use casual speech)
- タメ口で話す (to speak casually)
- タメ口をきく (to speak casually, slightly negative nuance)
Related Words
Contrast:
敬語 (polite language)