Over the past forty years, the author has observed the evolving role of English in Japan. Initially regarding English as essential due to their own experiences, they later realized its peripheral nature in Japanese life through translation work. The complexities of English education in Japan, including debates on curriculum, testing, and fairness, have persisted for decades. The rise of multilingualism and advancements in technology, such as machine translation and AI, are reshaping the landscape. The tech industry exemplifies the changing dynamics, with a mix of English and Japanese use in the workplace. As Japan continues to transform, understanding the nuances of English’s role is crucial for navigating the evolving linguistic landscape.
https://www.tokyodev.com/articles/the-english-paradox-four-decades-of-life-and-language-in-japan