Is the English language too casual?

Question

This question is in regards to the English language and how most Americans treat each other. I'm an avid anime watcher, and I also sometimes watch Japanese dramas, so I've been exposed to the Japanese language for quite some time. I noticed that Japanese has honorifics, such as -san, -sama, -kun, -sensei, etc. They are also usually on a last-name basis with each other. On the other hand, honorifics are rare in America and we usually use first names. For example, when I see 2 characters meet each other for the first time in an anime or Japanese drama, they refer to each other by their last names, plus an honorific (at least until they get to know each other more). On the flipside, when 2 Americans in a non-professional setting meet each other for the first time, first names are immediately used with NO honorifics, regardless of closeness with each other. Now, why is this? Americans who are acquainted or have already met are already on a first name basis, while Japanese people stick to last name+honorific until they get closer. Is America just way too casual, or is Japan just super polite? I'm curious to hear thoughts and opinions, especially from those familiar with the Japanese language and customs.

I'd like to add that my knowledge of Japanese customs is based solely from what I see in anime and Jdramas, so they are probably inaccurate descriptions. Feel free to correct me.

RE · Accepted Answer

There is no absolute standard of casual or polite, just as there is no absolute standard of better or worse. Each country has its own culture and the language tends to match.

Cameron · Answer

As I understand it from my older brother who plans on moving to Japan soon, Japan is has a very palpable social system. Their language reflects their culture in that you know exactly what your place is and where you stand with people. Most everyone is super polite and very respectful to strangers.

Heck, Japanese language learning systems really only teach you a more formal form of Japanese because it's better to be safe than sorry!

Anyways, Japanese show respect through honorifics, English uses alot of word choice and body language to convey politeness. Think of this...
Stranger A: "Oh hello there, lovely weather we're having huh? My name is Susan!"
Stranger B: (stares uninterestedly) "Oh... yeah I guess so...nice to know."

or this:
Stranger A: "Oh hello there, lovely weather we're having huh? My name is Susan!"
Stranger B: (looks up brightly and smiles) "Nice to meet you! Yeah this weather is beautiful even though it's hot as b@lls!"

I guess both use body language, but since Japanese already has honorifics, an English speakers body language has to be a bit over exaggerated you know? Anyways, I don't think it's too casual at all! Have you seen Betty White? That's one classy lady.

Aly · Answer

Yeah, all Asian countries are very formal and polite with each other. In South Korea, they do the same. It would be considered rude to call someone (especially if they are older) by their first name unless told to do so specifically. I don't think that their is anything wrong with the way that Americans call each other by their first name right when they meet. Honestly, I would be burdened trying to remember who to be respectful to and who to call san or sama. It would have to be a lot of getting used to. 
I think it's just the cultural difference. Every culture is different and some countries are more "respectful" than others. :)

? · Answer

I would think most people in the World are more formal than the Americans. Except perhaps the Canadians and the Australians. All are former English colonies. Hmmm. Hey ho! When in Rome.

Mark · Answer

Well, some people call each other by last names, such as "Mr. Joe" or something. Usually, calling somebody from their last name with no "Mr., Mrs., Miss., Ms., or Dr." is disrespectful in english. Like if your friend says "Hey, Chuck!" and you say "Hey, Sterlingston!".

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Is the English language too casual?

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