Daily life and customs around the world and in Japan

Q: What are "Adverbs of Frequency" and how are they used to describe habits?

Adverbs of frequency, such as always, usually, sometimes, and never , describe how often a habit or action occurs.

Q: How are infinitives (to + verb) used when talking about daily activities?

Infinitives are used to express the purpose or "why" behind an action.

Q: How do we use "modals of obligation" to explain cultural rules?

We use should or must to explain what is expected or required in a specific society.

Q: How does politeness in English differ from Japanese communication styles?

While Japanese politeness often uses keigo and bowing, English politeness is frequently shown by using questions instead of commands.

Q: How do you compare customs between two different countries in English?

Use comparative structures like " shorter than " for differences or " as ... as " for similarities.

Q: What common grammar mistake should be avoided when describing the habits of others?

Always remember to add the third-person 's' to the verb when talking about a friend or another person's routine (e.g., "My friend lives ").

English · Senior High School · 4 min read · Updated: Sep 7, 2026

Welcome to the World of Daily Life and Customs!

Have you ever wondered why people in some countries wear shoes inside their homes while others don't? Or why "lunchtime" starts at 11:00 AM in one place and 2:00 PM in another? In this chapter, we explore daily life and customs. By learning how people live, eat, and interact in Japan and around the world, you will not only improve your English but also become a better global communicator!

Why is this important? Understanding customs helps us avoid "culture shock" and shows respect to the people we meet. In English class, we use these topics to practice describing our own lives and asking others about theirs.

1. Talking About Your Routine (Daily Life)

Daily life involves the things we do every day at home, school, and in our communities. To talk about these, we often use specific grammar tools to show how often or why we do things.

Key Language Tools:

Adverbs of Frequency: Words like always, usually, sometimes, and never help describe habits.
Example: "I usually take the train to school, but I sometimes walk."
Infinitives (to + verb): Used to express purpose or "why" we do something.
Example: "I went to the convenience store to buy a snack."

Quick Tip: When describing your day to someone from another country, try to use details. Instead of just saying "I study," say "I study for two hours after dinner to prepare for my exams."

2. Customs: The "Unwritten Rules"

Customs are the common ways of behaving in a society. What is "normal" in Japan might be surprising elsewhere!

Eating and Manners

Food is a huge part of culture. In Japan, we say "Itadakimasu" before meals. In many English-speaking countries, people might say a short prayer or simply start eating after the host begins.

Modals of Obligation: Use should or must to explain rules.
Example: "In Japan, you should take off your shoes at the entrance."
Example: "In some countries, you must not tip at restaurants, but in the U.S., it is expected."

Communication Styles

How we talk to people changes based on the situation and person.
- In Japan: We often use polite language (keigo) and bowing.
- In English: Politeness is often shown through questions rather than commands.
Instead of: "Give me the salt."
Try: "Could you please pass the salt?"

Did you know? In some cultures, looking someone directly in the eye is a sign of honesty, while in others, it can be seen as aggressive or rude. Learning these small details is a key part of intercultural understanding.

3. Comparing Japan and the World

To talk about the differences and similarities between Japan and other countries, we use comparisons and relative clauses.

Useful Structures:

1. Making Comparisons:
- "The school day in the U.S. is shorter than in Japan."
- "Public transport in Tokyo is as busy as in London."

2. Using Relative Clauses (who/which/that):
This helps you give more information about a person or thing without starting a new sentence.
- "A yukata is a light kimono which people wear in the summer."
- "A host family is a family who welcomes students into their home."

Key Takeaway: When comparing, don't just look for what is "different." Look for what is "similar" too! This helps build a bridge between cultures.

4. Expressing Your Thoughts and Feelings

In the "Logic and Expression" part of your studies, you are encouraged to share your own opinions about these customs.

How to give a strong opinion:

Don't just say "I like it." Give a reason or example.
Step 1: State your point. ("I think school uniforms are good.")
Step 2: Give a reason. ("Because students don't have to worry about choosing clothes every morning.")
Step 3: Add a detail. ("It saves a lot of time in the morning.")

Language for Interaction:

When talking with a friend about customs, use these phrases to keep the conversation smooth:
- Showing Interest: "That's interesting!" or "Really? Tell me more."
- Clarifying: "Do you mean...?" or "Could you say that again?"
- Agreeing/Disagreeing: "I see your point, but..." or "I feel the same way."

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-generalizing: Avoid saying "All Americans..." or "All Japanese people..."
Better: "Many people in the U.S..." or "In general, people in Japan..."

2. Thinking there is a "Right" way: A custom isn't "correct" or "incorrect"—it's just "different." Use phrases like "In my culture..." to show you respect other perspectives.

3. Forgetting the "s": When talking about general habits, remember the third-person 's'.
Wrong: "My friend live in Canada."
Right: "My friend lives in Canada."

Summary Checklist

Quick Review: Can you do these things?
- Describe your daily routine using always, usually, or sometimes?
- Explain a Japanese custom using should or must?
- Use which or who to explain a cultural item?
- Give one reason why you like or dislike a certain custom?

Note: For more on history or traditional arts, see the chapters "Geography and History" and "Traditional Culture and Intercultural Understanding." This chapter focuses on the current, everyday habits of people today!

Quick check

Can you answer these now?

Open each question to check the key ideas from this chapter.

Why is it important to learn about daily life and customs in different countries?

Learning about customs helps avoid "culture shock," shows respect to others, and improves our ability to communicate as global citizens.

What are "Adverbs of Frequency" and how are they used to describe habits?

Adverbs of frequency, such as always, usually, sometimes, and never, describe how often a habit or action occurs.

How are infinitives (to + verb) used when talking about daily activities?

Infinitives are used to express the purpose or "why" behind an action.

How do we use "modals of obligation" to explain cultural rules?

We use should or must to explain what is expected or required in a specific society.

How does politeness in English differ from Japanese communication styles?

While Japanese politeness often uses keigo and bowing, English politeness is frequently shown by using questions instead of commands.

How do you compare customs between two different countries in English?

Use comparative structures like "shorter than" for differences or "as ... as" for similarities.

What is the purpose of using relative clauses (who/which/that) when describing culture?

Relative clauses provide extra information about a person or thing without having to start a new sentence.

What are the three steps to giving a strong opinion about a custom?

1. State your point. 2. Give a reason. 3. Add a detail or example.

Why should you avoid "over-generalizing" when talking about people from other countries?

Over-generalizing leads to stereotypes; it is better to use phrases like "In general" or "Many people" to be more accurate.

What common grammar mistake should be avoided when describing the habits of others?

Always remember to add the third-person 's' to the verb when talking about a friend or another person's routine (e.g., "My friend lives").

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