Many learners of English often find it hard to grasp the meaning of sentences at first glance, especially when compared to languages like Japanese, which use multiple scripts such as kanji, hiragana, and katakana. In this article, we’ll explore why English may feel harder to understand at first and the visual and linguistic differences between English and Japanese that may contribute to this experience.
The Visual Difference: English’s Alphabet vs. Japanese’s Multiscript System
One of the primary differences between English and Japanese is the writing system. Japanese uses three scripts: kanji, hiragana, and katakana, which provide a visual rhythm and make it easier to distinguish words and meanings at a glance. Kanji, in particular, adds depth to the language by allowing concepts to be conveyed more quickly through ideograms. In contrast, English relies solely on the 26-letter alphabet, which means words can appear similar and lack visual cues to their meaning, requiring more cognitive effort to interpret.
The Role of Syntax and Word Structure in English
In addition to the visual differences, English syntax and word structure can contribute to the difficulty in understanding at first glance. Unlike Japanese, which tends to rely on a more intuitive and flexible sentence structure, English is often more rigid. Words must be processed sequentially, and meanings are often dependent on the order and combination of those words. In Japanese, context and script variations often help convey meaning more directly, which can make comprehension easier for native speakers.
Reading Comprehension and Cognitive Load
When reading English, the reader must process each word and its meaning before forming a complete understanding of the sentence. This process, known as cognitive load, can be higher in English because there is less visual differentiation between words, and the reader must focus on each part of the sentence. Japanese readers, on the other hand, may have an easier time processing text due to the variety of scripts that add contextual clues, making it easier to recognize words and phrases at a glance.
Improving Reading Speed in English
As you continue to study English, one of the keys to improving reading comprehension and speed is to practice reading in context rather than focusing on individual words. By understanding common phrases and sentence structures, you’ll begin to recognize patterns and understand meanings more quickly. Additionally, reading widely—whether it’s books, articles, or other forms of text—can help train your brain to recognize English in a more fluid and intuitive way.
Conclusion: Overcoming the Challenges of English Comprehension
While English may seem harder to understand at first due to its visual and syntactical differences, with practice and exposure, you can overcome these challenges. The key is to build familiarity with the language’s patterns, structure, and context. With continued practice and patience, reading and understanding English will become more intuitive, just as it is in languages like Japanese.
コメント