In the Japanese language, there are various ways to express nuances and intentions based on region, context, and tone. One such interesting phrase is the use of ‘なんやって’ or ‘やって’ in casual conversations. While it can be used to express something like ‘なんだって’ or ‘～したんだって’ in a reporting manner, in some dialects, it carries a different, more conversational tone. In this article, we’ll break down the meaning of this phrase and explore which regional dialect it belongs to.
1. Understanding the Nuance of ‘なんやって’ and ‘やって’
The phrase ‘なんやって’ or ‘やって’ is typically used in the Kansai region of Japan, specifically in Osaka and surrounding areas. It conveys a tone that combines surprise, disbelief, or a light reproach, much like saying ‘What are you doing?’ or ‘What do you think you’re doing?’ in English. It is often used when one is questioning someone’s actions in an informal, but slightly irritated or perplexed tone.
This is similar to phrases like ‘なんでそんなこと言うねん’ (‘Why would you say something like that?’), where the speaker shows disbelief or a sense of questioning someone’s reasoning in a casual and sometimes teasing manner. The use of ‘なんやって’ reflects the same tone in sentences like ‘○○なにしてんねん’ (‘What are you doing?’).
2. Dialect Origin: Kansai Region
The dialect that uses ‘なんやって’ or ‘やって’ comes from the Kansai region, specifically Osaka. In Kansai, the structure of the sentence and the tone of voice is often more casual, which is why phrases like ‘なんやって’ or ‘やって’ are frequently used in everyday conversation.
For example, in the Kansai region, one might hear: ‘なんでそんなことしてるんやって!’ (‘What are you doing that for?’). This type of phrasing is very common among friends or peers in Osaka and its neighboring areas, where the emphasis is on making the conversation feel lighter, but still expressing disbelief or questioning someone’s actions.
3. The Contextual Use of ‘なんやって’ and ‘やって’
The usage of ‘なんやって’ often depends on the context. It can serve as a way to point out something unusual or unexpected, showing mild concern or surprise. For example, someone might use ‘なんやって’ to express confusion over a friend’s unexpected behavior or to inquire about something that seems out of place.
In some cases, ‘やって’ can be used to soften the question or make the statement sound less harsh. For example, saying ‘なんでそんなことしてるんやって?’ has a slightly less severe connotation compared to directly asking ‘Why are you doing that?’ in standard Japanese.
4. The Informal Tone and Its Cultural Impact
The informal and playful tone of phrases like ‘なんやって’ has become part of the cultural fabric of Kansai. It’s used in casual settings between friends, family members, and even colleagues when there’s a certain level of familiarity and comfort. The way it’s said can change depending on the speaker’s relationship with the person they’re addressing, adding layers of meaning beyond just the words themselves.
In the context of modern-day Osaka, this phrase has become a recognizable part of the local dialect, often associated with humor and light-hearted conversations. It plays a role in maintaining the warm, familiar vibe that is so characteristic of the Kansai region.
5. Conclusion: The Charm of Kansai Dialect
To summarize, the use of ‘なんやって’ and ‘やって’ in the Kansai dialect is a fun and conversational way to express surprise or question someone’s actions in a friendly, non-formal tone. Whether you’re in Osaka, Kobe, or Kyoto, these phrases add a playful and often teasing element to interactions, making them an essential part of Kansai’s linguistic charm. So next time you’re in Kansai, don’t be surprised if you hear a casual ‘なんやって’ as part of everyday banter!
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