The Comparison of the Meanings of the Verb “Len” in Thai and the Verb “Asobu” in Japanese

Abstract

The present study sought to compare the meanings of of the verb “Len” in Thai and the verb「遊ぶ」(asobu) in Japanese through an analysis of texts from the Thai National Corpus (TNC). The results demonstrated that the meanings of the two verbs exhibit similarities and differences. Specifically, the similarity lay in their primary meanings, which involve “enjoyment or pleasure.” The differences, on the other hand, pertained to their extended meanings. In particular, the specific meaning conveyed by「遊ぶ」included: 1) enjoying inappropriate actions at the expense of others or animals; 2) a place, machinery, equipment, or funds which are not utilized efficiently; and 3) traveling to different places to seek knowledge or experiences. Meanwhile, the specific meanings of “Len” involved: 1) utilizing one’s ability to engage in political activities or performances; 2) interacting with the opponent; 3) betting or taking risks by engaging in certain activites in which one lacks knowledge or experience; and 4) exercising power to handle matters with which the general public believes should remain uninvolved.

The results reflect differences in perspectives on language using. In essence, the verb「遊ぶ」is used in its primary and extended meanings to depict activites which the Japanese perceive as “done with enjoyment or pleasure.” However, activites “performed out of duties, rules, or social norms” are described by other verbs. Meanwhile, the verb “Len” across its meanings is employed to describe activities which Thai speakers view as “goal-oriented actions,” which may be undertaken with enjoyment or pleasure and carried out in accordance with duties or rules.