is a Japanese concept of interpersonal communication.[1] It also appears in martial arts circles, with a somewhat different meaning; see below. Literally translated, the term means "stomach art", and it refers to an exchange of thoughts and feelings that is implied in conversation, rather than explicitly stated.[1] It is a form of rhetoric intended to express real intention and true meaning through implication.[2] In some societies, it can also denote charisma or strength of personality.[3]
Takie Lebra identified four dimensions of Japanese silence – truthfulness, social discretion, embarrassment and defiance.[4] In Western literature, the essence of the difference between just talking and really communicating through silence is analyzed in Harold Pinter's The Dumb Waiter.[5]
In negotiation, is characterised by euphemisms, vague and indirect statements, prolonged silences and careful avoidance of any comment that might cause offense.[6] Information is communicated through timing, facial expression and emotional context, rather than through direct speech.[7] It is sometimes considered a duplicitous tactic in negotiation to obfuscate one's true intentions, which may cause to be viewed with suspicion.[8] It can also be misconstrued by those with limited experience in the tactic.
also functions as a method of leadership, replacing direct orders to subordinates with subtle, non-verbal signals. It is considered a desirable trait in a leader in Japan.[9] However, it may make assigning of responsibility or blame to the leader difficult.
In martial arts circles, has a different meaning, although the concepts are related. Here it refers to those arts which enable the practitioner to sense threats or anticipate an opponent's movements.[10] [11]