Miho: Recently, a movement in favor of adopting simpler Japanese to help out non-Japanese is catching on. Tom: That’s good, but why? Miho: Because many people don’t understand vocabulary related to disasters when earthquakes or tsunami occur. Tom: For instance? Miho: If you say “nigete” (run away), instead of “hinan shite,” more people will understand. Tom: I see, but I’ve encountered many signs written in English. Miho: There are many people who don’t understand English. Tom: I think so too. Many Japanese don’t understand English either. Miho: Simple Japanese has been used in schools. Tom: Oh. Miho: For instance, “gakkou kara (ie ni) kaeru” (returning home) instead of “gekou,”and “kanarazu kutsu wo nuide kudasai” (Be sure to take off your shoes please) instead of “dosoku genkin.” Tom: That’s easy for me, too. Miho: Isn’t there anything about Japanese that’s difficult for you? Tom: Honorific language. It always trips me up. Miho: For instance? Tom: I was embarrassed when I opened a bank account and was told, “Kochira ni gokinyuu kudasai” (Please fill in this part). Miho: “Kore ni kaite kudasai” (Please write here) is easier, isn’t it? Tom: In addition, I wish hiragana could be used as much as possible.