Receptivity and Language Management of Foreign Words
from the Language Policy Viewpoint
OKAMOTO Sachiko
This study analyzes the receptivity and language management of “Gairai-go（foreign
words）.” Recently an increasing number of loanwords are accepted in Japan, and without govern-ment control.
Foreign words came into Japanese from the west, mainly from English, and are called
“Katakana-go.” Over the last 40 years, many have criticized widely misued Katakana words
（Gairai-go）. Still, Katakana words are increasing. English is now recognized as an international language, and about 80% of foreign words are from English. When older people who don' t under-stand English communicate with young people, these Katakana words make communication diffi-cult.
On the other hand, in today’ s media-conscious society, Katakana words are used more of-ten. Even government offices use Katakana words in their publications. Some say that the usage of Katakana words should be restricted or changed into simple basic Japanese; others say we should accept these new Katakana words as they augment the Japanese language.
Katakana words will keep increasing due to several factors: first, the Japanese language cul-ture easily accepts Katakana; and second, the need for Japanese to receive information rapidly is changing in this modern international age.
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